Reporting from SmartCompany (Australia), Mark Bouris is pushing for a next-generation replacement for NSW’s Business Connect. His view is that the new program should be both digital and AI-powered, rather than relying primarily on traditional delivery methods.
The context is a small business review completed by the government, after which Bouris’ recommendations are now entering the conversation about how assistance should be delivered to owners and operators. For small- and mid-size businesses, the practical question is what “AI-powered” support would look like in day-to-day operations—faster guidance, more tailored information, and easier navigation of programs and resources.
Even without details on specific features, the signal is clear: businesses increasingly expect online access, and they want support that can adapt to their circumstances. If an AI layer is designed well, it could help reduce time spent searching for answers and help users get to relevant next steps more quickly.
That said, owners will want clarity on implementation—such as how information will be collected, how the guidance will be validated, and what the process is when a business needs human support instead of automated recommendations. The opportunity is efficiency; the key risk is assuming technology alone replaces professional judgement.
Source: SmartCompany (Australia)
