Bruce Billson appointed small business Ombudsman

4 March 2021

Bruce Billson has been announced as the new Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman (ASBFEO), his five-year term commencing on 11 March 2021.

Mr Billson will replace outgoing and inaugural ASBFEO, Kate Carnell AO.

“Having played an integral role in the establishment of the Ombudsman’s office, Mr Billson is well-positioned to carry the torch,” said Carnell.

After leaving federal politics following the 2016 election, Mr Billson served as the executive chair of the Franchise Council of Australia between 2016 and 2018, before going on to become an administrator for the City of Whittlesea in Melbourne.

Looking to the future, Billson plans to help small businesses recover from the COVID-19 pandemic.

“The pandemic has been punishing for many of our small and family businesses, which will need a supportive environment to help lead the nation into recovery.

"Most importantly, I’ll be focused on ensuring the small business community has the support and confidence they need to survive and thrive well beyond the COVID crisis," he said.