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

TAL's Health Sense Plus Now Covers Income Protection Policies

19 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori

In a significant development for policyholders, TAL has expanded its Health Sense Plus program to encompass income protection (IP) policies. This initiative, effective from August 8, 2025, aims to incentivise proactive health management by offering premium discounts to clients who engage in preventative health checks. - read more

New Legislation Prohibits Life Insurers from Using Genetic Test Results

19 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori

The Australian government has enacted legislation prohibiting life insurers from using the results of genetic tests to refuse coverage or increase premiums. This landmark decision aims to eliminate genetic discrimination and encourage individuals to undergo potentially life-saving genetic testing without fear of financial repercussions. - read more

Markel Insurance Expands into Australian Marine Market with New Leadership

19 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori

Markel Insurance has announced the appointment of Tim Wills as Head of Marine for Australia, marking a significant expansion into the country's marine insurance sector. Based in Sydney, Wills will spearhead the introduction of Markel's marine products, starting with marine cargo insurance. - read more

Pelagic Risk Services Strengthens Marina Support with Gold Sponsorship

19 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori

Pelagic Risk Services, a specialist marine insurance broker, has elevated its commitment to the marina industry by upgrading from Silver to Gold Sponsorship with the Marina Industries Association (MIA). This move underscores Pelagic's dedication to supporting marinas across Australia through enhanced financial contributions and the provision of exclusive risk management resources. - read more

Click for more Insurance News

Business Insurance Articles

The Importance of Documentation in Public Liability Claims

Public liability insurance is an essential part of any business's risk management strategy, especially for those operating in Australia. It's designed to protect businesses when they're found legally responsible for injury or damage to third parties due to their operations. But what happens when you need to make a claim? That's where understanding the claims process becomes vital. - read more

The Importance of a Custom Risk Management Plan: A Guide for Australian Entrepreneurs

In the fast-paced world of entrepreneurship, the only constant is change, and with change comes the inherent realm of the unknown – risk. Australian entrepreneurs, much like their international counterparts, operate in dynamic environments where unpredictability is a staple. However, the unique economic, legal, and environmental aspects of Australia demand a more localized understanding of these risks. Acknowledging this unpredictability is the first step towards mitigating potential threats to one's business venture. - 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

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

Start Here !

Knowledgebase

Premium:
The amount paid for an insurance policy, usually on a regular basis, to maintain coverage.

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.