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In this episode of the ICB News Channel Podcast, host Rob Marshall is joined by Institute of Certified Bookkeepers CEO Amanda Linton for an important discussion on the challenges and opportunities facing Australia's small business community. Following up on our previous episode examining the state of regional small business, this conversation broadens the lens to explore the outlook for small businesses across Australia, drawing on insights from the COSBOA National Small Business Summit 2026, held over two days in Sydney during August. Amanda shares the key themes, concerns and opportunities raised by business leaders, industry representatives and policymakers, including the ongoing impact of regulation and compliance requirements on Australia's small business sector. The discussion also highlights the critical role that bookkeepers play as trusted advisors, helping business owners navigate government red tape, improve productivity, make better-informed decisions and identify opportunities for growth. Amanda also provides an update on the National AI Skills Forum, where she represented the Institute of Certified Bookkeepers, outlining the growing importance of artificial intelligence and digital capability development across the Australian economy. Together, Rob and Amanda examine one of the forum's most pressing themes: addressing workforce challenges while accelerating AI adoption. They discuss why Australia is falling behind many parts of the world in enterprise AI implementation, what this means for businesses and their advisors, and how the ICB is working to equip bookkeepers with the knowledge and tools needed to support clients through this transition as well as in their own Bookkeeping practices.. This episode explores why AI readiness is not just a technology issue or a challenge for selected industries, but an "all of us" challenge that requires coordinated action across business, education and government. Key topics discussed: • The state of Australia's small business sector • Key takeaways from the COSBOA National Small Business Summit 2026 • Red tape, regulation and productivity challenges • The evolving role of bookkeepers as business advisors • Insights from the National AI Skills Forum • Australia's AI adoption gap and workforce challenges • Upskilling Australia at scale for an AI-enabled future • How the ICB is helping bookkeepers lead the conversation Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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

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

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

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.

This episode of the ICB News Channel has a focus on AI for Bookkeepers and Small Business owners and was recorded live from the Accounting & Business Expo (ABE) in March of 2026. In this episode, we not only hear "the sounds of ABE" as it happened, but we also hear a range of differing perspectives from a number of different people associated deeply with Bookkeeping and Business here in Australia, focussing specifically on Artificial Business (AI). Where is AI at in 2026 for Bookkeepers and Small Business owners is tackled head on in this episode and why is it important to be across the phases we now find ourselves in and how easy it could be to miss key messaging and the right suggested approaches to take, regarding this brave (but at times daunting) new world. Plenty of deep insights as well as some great tips and tricks are discussed in this episode of the Podcast and come off the back of the ICB touring the country unpacking AI in a Bootcamp / Workshop to members in attendance. 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.

In this bonus special episode of the ICB News Channel Podcast, Matthew and Rob tackle what will arguably be the biggest challenge for Business owners and Employers in 2026, the transition to Pay Day Superannuation or Pay Day Super as it is more regularly known. The how it works, the explanations behind the terms and processes, the what to do and the what not to do regarding Pay Day Super, are all unpacked in this episode. There is a lot to take in with this change in approach that has wide ranging impacts that go way beyond just paying Super. And there are many that need to plan and do things regarding this right now, including Bookkeepers and Business owners, and the easiest way to do that is to sit back and take a listen. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Small Business here in Australia is without dispute, the backbone of the nations economy. In this episode of the Podcast, we examine Small Business right now here in Australia through the eyes and responses of the community itself and attempt to answer and do a deep dive into critical understandings such as, how optimistic are small businesses about the economy currently and into 2026, how are revenues tracking and is there signs of recovery in certain sectors, challenges holding small business back and how small business is innovating and adopting new tech, to help drive growth, just to name a few. MYOB has recently polled 1000 small business owners across and multitude of sectors and industries and through it's bi-annual Business Monitor which MYOB has been tracking now for over two decades, we can hear these insights from the most trusted of sources, the respondents themselves. Collette Betts has for the past 7 years, led MYOB's Corporate Affairs division specialising in SME advocacy programs of work in Australia including the bringing together of the twice annual survey. It is a fascinating listen with so many lessons and understandings for Bookkeepers and Small Business owners to tap into. The mindset of Australian Small Business at this time, is there for all to take in and benefit from, in this episode. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In October 2025, the Institute of Certified Bookkeepers hit the road around Australia to speak to audiences in 9 various Cities for the annual Roadshow and Summit. At each of these events, one topic was a dominant theme ... how should Artificial Intelligence (AI) to be viewed, approached and utilized by Bookkeepers, BAS Agents and those working with Small Business here in Australia. At each of the locations the ICB visited throughout that month, a Podcast episode was recorded of a panel of ICB's leadership, Executive Director Matthew Addison, CEO Amanda Linton and General Manager Rob Marshall, held a fireside chat about AI and its impacts on and to Bookkeepers. This episode of the ICB News Channel Podcast, reveals which of those fireside chats in which one of the 9 cities, was chosen to go live. You will have to tune in to hear which City in Australia got the nod. But more importantly, whether you were there or not, this is either an opportunity to revisit this important conversation or hear for the first time, exactly what was said and explained at that event. It is a great listen with plenty of takeaways. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This very special episode of the ICB News Channel Podcast captures the recent sounds of the Institute of Certified Bookkeepers Roadshow and Summit 2025 that has rolled around Australia in the month of October, covering 9 cities and speaking to in excess of 1000 Bookkeepers in that time. Regardless of whether you attended the events or not, this is a fabulous opportunity to either engage or reengage with some of the content, excitement and community that unfolded during the month. Included is the golden moment of the crowning of this years Certified Professional Bookkeeper of the Year at a glittering evening in Melbourne at the Annual ICB Luca Awards. However, you will also hear from many of those who attended and why they found this years events and content to be some of the best ever as well as to inspire you to consider putting next years event in your diary right now, as a "must attend". Fun, laughter, support and wonderful reflections (and even a rare moment of singing from a familiar regular host on this Podcast), are all captured in this episode for you to enjoy. And make sure you listen out for part 2 of the "sounds of Roadshow & Summit 2025", dropping very soon. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

October in Australia is Cyber Awareness Month and this episode of the ICB News Channel Podcast, puts a strong focus on why this is so critical for all Bookkeepers and Small Business owners across Australia. There is a Cyber incident affecting Australians every 6 to 7 minutes and Bookkeepers and the Small Business community are not immune to this sad fact. Cyber specialist, Rutland Smith from Harvey Norman Technology for Business joins Rob in this episode to tackle things such as - what are the common mistakes when it comes to cyber and how can they be avoided, what are the things to be on high alert for currently in this ever changing world of cyber, how can bookkeepers understand their obligations when it comes to cyber and what is the difference between a hacker and a scammer ... are just a few of the things discussed in this episode. Cyber can become one of those "I have heard it all before" type topics, however it is critical that we do not take our eye off the ball with what is happening on a day by day basis and Cyber Awareness Month calls out for you to take a listen to this episode and reevaluate your approach to the ever looming threat of Cyber. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We celebrate our 50th episode of the ICB News Channel but lifting the lid on some pretty big issues confronting not only Bookkeepers across Australia right now, but also Businesses and Communities in every corner of the nation. Dealing with regulations and approvals in local communities and in business, the ever growing rise and rise of AI and the challenges confronting communities with this, a tax system that needs constant reform as well as simply the impacts of the economic reforms that individuals and organisations are craving at the moment. All of these topics plus much more including key articles from the recent ICB monthly newsletter are examined by News Channel host Rob Marshall and ICB Executive Director Matthew Addison in this episode and in particular off the back of the recent Economic Reform Roundtable sessions in Canberra, attended exclusively by Matthew Addison. Some wonderful insights into what this was actually all about and what are the potential flow on affects for Bookkeepers and Small Businesses here in Australia. A bumper edition to celebrate a special milestone for the Podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.