Government ponies up for round three of Digital Solutions program to ensure small biz survival

If you’re running a small biz in Australia and you reckon digital tools are just nice to have, it’s time for a rethink. The Albanese Government has just opened Round 3 of the Digital Solutions grants, aimed at giving small businesses the confidence, chops and tech smarts to keep up in a world where online is the new front door.

Minister for Small Business, Dr Anne Aly, says with tech moving fast, small business owners need support to thrive, not just survive. The program has already helped over 60,000 small businesses with affordable, high-quality digital advice.

Some digital data to wake you up

You might be wondering: ‘Do these digital upgrades really make a difference?’ ABS data suggests yes. Businesses across Australia are becoming more ‘digitally intense’. That means more digital skills, better cybersecurity, increased software use, and more eCommerce.

Meanwhile, about 70 per cent of businesses now report having preventative cybersecurity measures in place, up sharply from just eight per cent a few years back. That’s ticking compliance boxes and protecting small business livelihoods.

Labour productivity (output per hour worked) rose by 1.1 per cent in 2023-24, following a painfully big dip the year before. Granted, part of productivity depends on many factors, but digital tools and efficiencies are a big driver.

What’s new in Round 3

This latest round isn’t just more of the same. There’s a sharper focus on AI and emerging technologies. If you’ve been sitting on the fence with ‘Should I bother with AI?’, this grants program is nudging you to lean in.

Also, the program continues offering workshops, webinars, tutorials, and up to four hours of tailored one-on-one coaching (for a small fee).

For advisory organisations that apply, there’s a special mention: those working with culturally and linguistically diverse businesses and First Nations businesses are especially welcome. Inclusivity has been baked in.

What businesses are saying

The best evidence of the program’s impact comes from the businesses that have already jumped in.

Suzanna Barry from Green Pedal Cycles in Echuca, credits the mentoring with lifting her online visibility:

“The mentoring has been invaluable. I’ve increased my knowledge in relation to SEO and blog writing. Thanks to the support of my mentor, my business is now ranking #1 on Google for Things To Do in Echuca.”

For Zara Jarvis at SoundCheck Studios in Bendigo, the value has been in building long-term digital foundations:

“The Digital Solutions Program is such a cost-effective way for businesses to up-skill, and to have really great support around building a framework for how to digitally operate.”

Don’t leave it too late

Applications for advisory organisations are open until 5pm AEDT, 5 December 2025. Small businesses don’t apply directly for the grant; instead, they can access services via Digital Solutions once organisations are approved. Go to business.gov.au/digitalsolutions or ring 13 28 46 to find a provider close to you.

With productivity growth sluggish over the long haul, doing nothing is risky. This initiative is a genuine chance to inject agility, efficiency, and resilience into your business.

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