cybersecurity

Do you think you can spot a cyber threat?

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Cyber security is more important than ever

Protecting your customers and your data from cybercriminals should be one of your top business priorities.

Ensure that you know how to identify and respond to cyber threats. Increasing your knowledge and awareness is the best way to protect your business.

Luckily, you don’t have to be an IT expert to step up your cybersecurity. Protect your business now with these five ways to increase your online account security:

1. Make 2 Factor-Authentication Mandatory

2 Factor-Authentication (2FA) helps prevent a hacker from getting into your account, even if they steal your password. To avoid common phishing techniques associated with text message codes, choose to apply 2-Factor Authentication.

Alongside the traditional password, 2FA-enabled users are required to enter a one-time security code that they receive via text which is the best way to authenticate the user.

You don’t have to make 2FA mandatory in your business, but we strongly recommend it as do most good cloud computing platforms.

2. Close shared login accounts

Shared logins mean multiple people in your business know a password and can make it harder to track any work or issues you may have.

3. Remove risky access to your data

Consider removing account access for any staff who are no longer with you.

4. Update your software

If your browser operating system or apps are out-of-date, the software might no longer be safe from hackers. Keep your software updated to help protect your account.

5. Use unique, strong passwords

It’s risky to use the same password on multiple sites. If your password for one site is hacked, it could be used to access your accounts on multiple sites. Instead, consider using a password manager.

If you’re ever unsure about a phone caller, SMS, voicemail or email claiming to be genuine but seems suss, do not reply. You can also follow the latest scams and advice on how to protect yourself on the ATO website or via Scamwatch.

Looking for a Xero Certified Bookkeeper for your business? Are you drowning in paperwork? Cash flow keeping you awake at night? Learn how Notch Above Bookkeeping can solve all these problems, and more. Contact our team on 1300 015 130 Australia-wide.

mental health

Wellbeing for small business owners

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Wellbeing support available for small business owners

The Queensland government has unveiled an $8.76 million wellbeing package for small business owners in need of mental health support.

The Small Business Wellness Package is for Queensland business owners in the process of starting or currently running their own businesses.

A $3 million Small Business Support Service Fund, which will assist with alleviating stresses for small business owners, is included in the package.

Six new wellbeing coaches will also be implemented in Cairns, Mackay, Townsville, Toowoomba, and North and South Brisbane under the wellness package, joining the existing state-wide network of more than 40 rural, tourism and small business financial counsellors.

Read more at https://www.business.qld.gov.au/starting-business/advice-support/support/wellbeing

Looking for a Xero Certified Bookkeeper for your business? Are you drowning in paperwork? Cash flow keeping you awake at night? Learn how Notch Above Bookkeeping can solve all these problems, and more. Contact our team on 1300 015 130 Australia-wide.

Source: Business Queensland

manufacturing

Made in Queensland

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Made in Queensland Round 5 now open

Made in Queensland (MIQ) is a $101.5 million Queensland Government program helping small and medium-sized manufacturers

It helps firms increase international competitiveness, productivity and innovation via the adoption of new technologies, and to generate high-skilled jobs for the future.

The applicant guidelines for Round 5 (PDF, 689.1KB) are now available. The $20 million Round 5 of Made in Queensland opened for applications on 31 October 2022.

Queensland-based manufacturers looking to adopt the processes, practises and equipment of Industry 4.0 implementing projects that include energy efficiency, export, reshoring, supply chain improvements, sustainability and/or decarbonisation are encouraged to apply for matched funding grants of $50,000 to $2.5 million. See the applicant guidelines for full details including eligibility and evaluation criteria.

About MIQ

Since 2017, MIQ has supported 104 advanced manufacturing projects across the state. It is expected to create more than 1,700 jobs over 5 years and generate more than $140 million in private sector investment. Of the 104 projects funded through MIQ, 38% are being delivered in regional Queensland, creating more than 500 jobs over the next 5 years.

The MIQ program is part of the Queensland Advanced Manufacturing 10-Year Roadmap and Action Plan to support our manufacturers. On 21 June 2022, the Government announced that Made in Queensland is receiving $40 million for two more rounds, over the next two years, to continue helping small and medium manufacturers to increase international competitiveness through adopting new technologies.

Looking for a Xero Certified Bookkeeper for your business? Are you drowning in paperwork? Cash flow keeping you awake at night? Learn how Notch Above Bookkeeping can solve all these problems, and more. Contact our team on 1300 015 130 Australia-wide.

Source: QLD Department of Regional Development, Manufacturing and Water