National Family Business Day: Celebrating the Heartland of Australian and New Zealand Communities

On Thursday, 19 September, across Australia and New Zealand, we celebrate National Family Business Day, an occasion to recognise the vital role family-owned businesses play in contributing wealth, driving innovation, creating jobs, giving back and fostering a sense of community.

From iconic names like Complete Office Supplies in Australia and Todd Corporation in New Zealand, there is a long history of family-owned enterprises that have made enduring impacts our nations. Yet, it's not just the recognisable brands that leave an impact; it's also the brewery you visit on the weekend, the butcher which supplies the sausages for your kids’ footy club BBQ, and the accountant that helps you at tax-time. Especially in times of economic uncertainty, support of these businesses is more critical than ever.

In both Australia and New Zealand, family businesses play a pivotal role in our societies and economies. Today, it's estimated that approximately 70% of all businesses in Australia are family-owned and operated, employing roughly 50% of the workforce and generating an estimated AU$4.3 trillion in wealth. Similarly, in New Zealand, 75% of businesses are family-owned, employing a staggering 75% of the workforce*. 

Beyond their economic contributions, family businesses have a deep-rooted commitment to giving back and supporting the communities where they operate. They sponsor local sports teams, build community infrastructure, and establish foundations. 

Since its beginnings in Bathurst in 1948, Kennards Hire has grown exponentially, now with over 210 branches and over 1,900 team members across two countries. Its guiding values of 'One Family,' ‘Fair Dinkum’, ‘Every Customer a Raving Fan’ and ‘Taking Hire Higher’ continue to be the mainstay of Kennards Hire's success, shaping the evolution of the equipment hire brand so well recognised today.

So, when you next decide to hire a tradesperson, groom your dog, buy a gift for a loved one or hire a mower to cut your lawn, choose to celebrate and support a family-owned business. Not just today, but every day.

For more information about National Family Business Day visit the Family Business Association website.

Source: Family Business Association 2024