Australia Family Business Day, taking place annually on 19 September, is dedicated to celebrating the vital role family-owned businesses play in our economy and communities. Family businesses are the heartbeat of Australia and New Zealand – driving innovation, creating jobs and fostering a strong sense of community.

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Family Business United is delighted to support a day that was created by The Family Business Association, an  organisation that  does so much to champion family businesses across Australia and New Zealand.

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From small local enterprises to large multinational organisations, family businesses are the leaders, entrepreneurs and job creators that keep Australia and New Zealand moving forward. The day invites everyone to support, choose and celebrate family businesses – today, and every day.

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The Backbone of The Economy

Family businesses are integral to the economic success of both Australia and New Zealand.  In Australia, family businesses represent around 70% of all businesses, employ approximately 50% of the workforce, and generate an estimated $4.3 trillion in wealth, underlining their immense economic impact.

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In New Zealand, family businesses account for an estimated 75% of all businesses, contribute around 65% of GDP, and employ approximately 75% of the workforce. The agriculture sector – a cornerstone of the New Zealand economy – is predominantly made up of family-owned enterprises.

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Together, these figures highlight the central role family businesses play in sustaining economic growth, employment and prosperity across the region.

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Community Champions

Beyond their economic contribution, family businesses are deeply committed to the communities in which they operate. In Australia alone, family businesses donate around AU$1 billion each year to charitable causes.

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They sponsor local sports teams, support health, education and the arts, and invest in community infrastructure. Many establish charitable foundations or lead local philanthropic initiatives, reinforcing the vital role family businesses play in strengthening the social fabric of their communities.

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Join the Celebration

Australia Family Business Day is a chance to recognise, support and celebrate the family businesses that make such a powerful contribution across Australia and New Zealand. Whether you are a family business owner, employee, customer or supporter, the day is an opportunity to show appreciation for the enterprises that underpin our economies and communities.

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Get involved on social media to support family firms across the region using the hashtag #NFBD26

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Together, let’s celebrate family business  across Australia and New Zealand.