CGT showdown hits small business: Labor’s capital gains tax and negative gearing changes are back in the spotlight as a Senate inquiry wraps up, with Opposition and business groups arguing the two-day consultation window is too short and could raise compliance costs for SMEs. WFH laws spark backlash: Victoria’s mandatory work-from-home bill (covering regular, casual and part-time workers) is drawing warnings from the Business Council of Australia that it’s a “solution searching for a problem” and could push investment and jobs interstate. RBA holds rates: After three straight hikes, the Reserve Bank left the cash rate at 4.35%, a key signal for mortgage-stressed households and cashflow planning for small firms. Insurance distribution shift: Youi told a parliamentary inquiry it wants more “compelling” small business insurance after moving to direct distribution, arguing broker economics can limit service. Cyber and safety funding for SMEs: Queensland is funding upgraded security at a women-only gym after vandalism, while the week also included renewed focus on endpoint security and workplace safety compliance. Tech for customer service: NSW Rugby League modernised its contact centre with a Microsoft Teams-native solution, aiming for faster, simpler operations. Community energy boost: Western Power is progressing 18 new community batteries to help renters and households without rooftop solar benefit from stored solar. Work conditions probe: Queensland container exchange operator COEX shut U Can Recycle refund depots after safety and visa-related allegations. Local business resilience stories: A regional linen service shared how it scaled post-COVID without losing control, and a Sunshine Coast venue described early cashflow and payments problems before stabilising. Ad market stays strong: WPP Media forecasts Australia’s ad market to reach $31.1b in 2026 (+7.4%), citing demand from government and small-to-medium businesses and growth in performance channels.