20-Fold Increase in Small Business Restructurings to Sustain Operations

How SMEs Are Leveraging Restructuring to Navigate Financial Challenges

The information on this website is general in nature and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation, or needs. Consider seeking personal advice from a licensed adviser before acting on any information.

The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has reported a significant uptick in small business restructurings (SBR), with 3,388 appointments between July 2022 and December 2024.

This marks an almost 20-fold increase compared to the previous period, indicating that more directors are embracing this regime to retain control while restructuring debt.

Of these appointments, 2,820 transitioned to small business restructuring plans, leading to over $101 million in dividends distributed to unsecured creditors. Notably, approximately 87% of these dividends, amounting to $88 million, were allocated to the Australian Taxation Office (ATO).

This surge reflects a growing awareness among SME owners of the benefits of formal restructuring processes. By engaging in SBR, businesses can negotiate with creditors, restructure debts, and implement strategies to return to profitability, all while maintaining operational control.

For small business owners facing financial difficulties, this trend underscores the importance of considering formal restructuring options. Engaging with professional advisors and understanding the available mechanisms can provide a pathway to navigate financial challenges and sustain business operations.

Published:Wednesday, 19th Nov 2025
Source: Paige Estritori

Please Note: If this information affects you, seek advice from a licensed professional.

Share this news item:

Insurance News

Rising Insurance Costs Amidst Climate Change: What Homeowners Need to Know

06 Dec 2025: Paige Estritori

Australian homeowners are experiencing significant increases in home insurance premiums, largely due to the escalating risks associated with climate change. Recent analyses reveal a national average premium hike of 14%, translating to an additional $343 annually for policyholders. This trend underscores the growing financial burden on homeowners as extreme weather events become more frequent and severe. - read more

Competitive Market Dynamics Drive Down Construction Insurance Costs

06 Dec 2025: Paige Estritori

The Australian construction insurance market has entered a notably softer phase in 2025, characterized by a significant reduction in premiums across various lines. This shift is primarily attributed to increased competition among insurers, offering clients more options and driving down costs. - read more

Why Perth Hospitality Businesses Should Reassess Their Insurance Coverage

06 Dec 2025: Paige Estritori

Perth's hospitality industry is currently navigating a challenging landscape marked by escalating operational costs and evolving risks. In response, industry experts are advocating for a thorough reassessment of insurance policies to ensure businesses are adequately protected. - read more

Fine Food Australia and R&CA Announce Strategic Partnership to Strengthen Hospitality Sector

06 Dec 2025: Paige Estritori

In a significant move to support Australia's hospitality industry, Fine Food Australia has announced a partnership with the Restaurant & Catering Industry Association of Australia (R&CA). This collaboration aims to provide a unified platform for industry professionals to network, share insights, and advocate for the sector's interests. - read more

Click for more Insurance News

Business Insurance Articles

The Cost of Being Uninsured: Why Every Australian Small Business Needs Liability Coverage

Welcome to the complex world of running a small business in Australia where navigating through liability risks is as crucial as managing daily operations. This article is crafted to illuminate why every Australian small business needs liability coverage — a shield to protect against potential financial catastrophes. - read more

The Role of Insurance in Protecting Your Small Business Assets

In the bustling world of small businesses, the phrase 'expect the unexpected' captures the essence of entrepreneurship. While you can plan for success, unforeseen risks are always lurking around the corner. That's where the importance of insurance comes into play. It acts as a safeguard, protecting the lifeblood of your business against potential perils. - read more

How to Choose the Right Public Liability Insurance for Your Business

Public liability insurance is a key consideration for business owners in Australia. This type of insurance helps protect businesses against claims made by third parties for injuries or property damage. But what exactly does it do? In simple terms, public liability insurance covers legal costs and expenses, as well as any damages awarded, if your business is found liable for an incident. - read more

Freelancer or Employee? Understanding the Difference and the Liability Implications

The contemporary business landscape in Australia is witnessing a significant shift towards the gig economy, with a growing number of professionals opting for the flexibility and autonomy that freelancing offers. This trend has not only revolutionized the way work is performed but has also introduced new dynamics in the legal distinctions between freelancers and traditional employees. - read more

Start Here !

Knowledgebase

Public Liability Insurance:
A very broad term for insurance covering liability exposures for individuals and business owners. It provides broad coverage, generally including all exposures for property damage and bodily injury.

This website is owned and operated by Clark Family Pty Ltd (ACN 010 281 008) as Trustee for the Clark Family Trust (ABN 35 957 893 714), 43 Larch Street Tallebudgera QLD 4228. Clark Family Pty Ltd is an Authorised Representative (AR 1298860) of Unique Group Broker Services Pty Ltd (AFSL 509434) for financial product referrals and an Authorised Credit Representative (ACR 401491) of Saccasan Pty Ltd (ACL 386297). Check our licensing details on the ASIC registers: Clark Family Pty Ltd ACR, Clark Family Pty Ltd AR, Saccasan Pty Ltd, Unique Group Broker Services.

IMPORTANT: We do not provide financial product advice or credit assistance. We act solely as an introducer and refer enquiries to licensed third-party intermediaries, insurers, and lenders - with whom you can then deal directly. We may receive a fee or commission from these third parties in consideration for the referral. Before any action is taken to obtain a product or service referred to by this website, advice should be obtained (from either the third party to whom we refer you or from another qualified intermediary) as to the appropriateness of obtaining those products having regard to your objectives, financial situation and needs. Whilst we have our own process for validating the legitimacy of our referral partners, you should always verify the credentials of your financial adviser before proceeding with recommendations that they may present. Visit the ASIC website for further information.