In this first of a two-part With Interest, we’ll explore key findings from CPA Australia’s 2025 Asia-Pacific Small Business Survey, which was unveiled at Parliament House in Canberra.  

In part one, CPA Australia’s Gavin Ord unpacks the economic and operational challenges SMEs are facing – from cash flow pressures and access to finance, to workforce fatigue, productivity and talent retention – all within today’s demanding business environment.  

This annual survey captures the experiences of 4200 small businesses across the region – including more than 500 in Australia – offering a timely snapshot of their performance, priorities and pain points. 

From sole traders and family-run builders to growing e-commerce retailers and service providers, these are the businesses that CPA Australia and its members work with every day. 

Part two will feature a panel discussion with industry experts who dig deeper into the implications and opportunities behind the survey’s key data. 

Presenter: Gavan Ord, Business Investment and International Lead, Policy and Advocacy, CPA Australia 

You can read CPA Australia’s Asia-Pacific Small Business Survey and CPA Australia’s media release which calls for Government to urgently prioritise small business issues.  

You can find a CPA at our custom portal on the CPA Australia website.  

Would you like to listen to more With Interest episodes? Head to CPA Australia’s YouTube channel.  

CPA Australia publishes four podcasts, providing commentary and thought leadership across business, finance, and accounting:  

• With Interest
• INTHEBLACK 
• INTHEBLACK Out Loud
• Excel Tips 

Search for them in your podcast platform.  

Email the podcast team at [email protected]