In this episode of the ICB News Channel Podcast, host Rob Marshall is joined by COSBOA CEO Skye Cappucio to discuss the newly released COSBOA Small Business Perspectives Report 2026 and what it reveals about the realities facing regional, rural and remote small businesses across Australia. Based on feedback from 572 business owners, the report paints a compelling picture of the pressures impacting business confidence, profitability and growth, with many of the findings likely to resonate with small businesses and bookkeepers regardless of their location.

Rob and Skye explore the key issues highlighted in the report, including workforce shortages, rising wages, increasing operating costs, energy efficiency challenges, insurance pressures and the growing demand for flexible working arrangements. The conversation goes beyond the statistics to examine what these trends mean for the long-term sustainability of Australia's small business sector and the critical support networks that surround it.

A particularly thought-provoking discussion centres on the report's message that "resilience is not a policy setting", challenging the expectation that small business owners can simply absorb every new challenge placed before them. Together, Rob and Skye unpack why meaningful policy, practical support and informed advocacy are essential if small businesses are to survive and thrive in an increasingly uncertain environment.

This is an important conversation for professional bookkeepers, who play a vital role in supporting the financial health, continuity and success of small businesses. Whether you work with clients in regional Australia or major metropolitan centres, this episode provides valuable insights into the challenges facing the sector and why these issues matter now more than ever.

A must-listen episode for bookkeepers, advisers and small business owners alike.

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EOFY 2026: The Bookkeeper & Small Business Need to Know

The end of the financial year is here, and with it comes a raft of important updates, compliance considerations, and upcoming changes that bookkeepers and small business owners simply cannot afford to ignore.

In this episode, host Rob Marshall is joined by Institute of Certified Bookkeepers (ICB) Executive Director Matthew Addison to unpack the key issues shaping EOFY 2026, while also looking ahead to what’s coming in 2027 and beyond.

From software developments surrounding Stapled Super Funds and the importance of Letters of Engagement, to the latest updates and last-minute considerations for the rollout of Pay Day Super, Rob and Matthew cut through the complexity and provide practical insights for bookkeepers, BAS agents, and small business advisers across Australia.

Whether you're wrapping up the current financial year, preparing clients for future compliance changes, or simply wanting to stay ahead of an evolving regulatory landscape, this episode delivers the knowledge and guidance you need.

Essential listening for Australia's bookkeeping community and everyone supporting small business success. Tune in now. 🎙️📊✅

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In this important episode, for many varied reasons, host Rob Marshall sits down with ICB Executive Director Matthew Addison to break down the key takeaways from the latest Federal Budget and what it means for bookkeepers and small business owners across Australia. From practical impacts to strategic insights, this conversation helps you stay informed and prepared.

In the second half of todays episode, Rob is joined by Rutland Smith, Cyber Security Expert from Harvey Norman Technology for Business, diving into the critical topic of cloud technology. They unpack what you need to know about cloud storage, software security, and the growing risks of cyber attacks, along with practical tips to help safeguard your data and your business. Stay ahead on policy changes and protect your digital assets—this episode delivers insights you can’t afford to miss. Tune in now and empower your business with knowledge that matters.

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In this episode of the ICB News Channel, host Rob Marshall is joined by Matthew Addison and Amanda Linton for a timely discussion on the evolving role of bookkeepers and small business owners in an AI-driven world.

Across two parts to todays episode, they explore why continuous professional development is critical as AI tools become more integrated into everyday business operations—while reinforcing the importance of maintaining a “human in the loop” when it comes to government compliance and key decision-making.

Drawing on insights from the latest ICB Annual Survey, the conversation highlights why bookkeepers remain more essential than ever across Australia, offering trusted expertise, oversight, and real-world judgment that technology alone cannot replace.

With perspectives from both Bookkeepers themselves via the survey and practical application, this episode provides valuable insights for anyone navigating the balance between innovation, compliance, and human expertise in today’s business landscape as well the importance of always checking the source and asking the right questions.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the latest episode of the ICB News Channel Podcast, Rob and Matthew unpack one of the most significant regulatory changes facing the profession — Anti‑Money Laundering (AML). They explore the why, when and who behind AML and what the introduction of Tranche 2 on 1 July 2026 will mean for Australian businesses, bookkeepers and bookkeeping practices. The discussion highlights why now is the time for bookkeepers to closely examine what they do, how they do it, and how they can prepare themselves and their clients for the changes ahead.

Also covered in this episode is a Pay Day Super update, including how the ATO will approach the first year of this new regime. Rob and Matthew also discuss new opportunities for small businesses in regional Australia to have their voices heard during uncertain economic times, and the vital role bookkeepers play in supporting businesses through change, disruption and business continuity challenges.

Plus much more in this must‑listen episode.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, host Rob Marshall sits down with ICB’s resident Cyber guru, Rutland Smith, for a clear and practical deep‑dive into the Government’s cybersecurity framework known as the Essential Eight.

Rutland breaks down each element in everyday language—no tech‑speak required—while he and Rob explore why these strategies matter for every Bookkeeper and Business Owner, regardless of size or industry. From reducing risk to building stronger digital resilience, this episode uncovers what you really need to know and how the Essential Eight can protect the work you do every day.

Tune in to get cyber‑smart, the easy way.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Kick off 2026 with serious momentum on the ICB News Channel Podcast as Rob sits down with ICB CEO Amanda Linton for a powerful start‑of‑year conversation.

If you’re like most people, your “2026 goals list” is already longer than reality will allow—and maybe even starting to feel out of reach. In this episode, we shift the focus from the technical to the techniques that truly matter for Bookkeepers and Small Business owners navigating a new year full of hopes, plans, and pressure.

Amanda and Rob dive into the big questions:

• Should you specialise or remain a generalist?
• How do early‑year decisions lay the groundwork for future burnout, overwhelm, or satisfaction?
• What mindset shifts can help you gain clarity before the busy year really takes hold?

Packed with practical insights and thought‑provoking reflections, this episode delivers plenty of pearls you can apply right now to set yourself up for a sustainable—and successful—2026.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.