The Town of Gawler is a proud participant of the Small Business Friendly Council Initiative and is a signatory to the Charter.

The Small Business Friendly Council Charter is an initiative of the Small Business Commission SA.

As a participant of this Charter, Council is committed to:

  1. Paying undisputed invoices from small businesses within 15 days.
  2. Implementing a timely and cost effective dispute resolution process to manage disputes.
  3. Reducing Red Tap for small businesses interacting with Council.

Signed Charter Agreement For Small Business Friendly Council Initiative

In June 2025, the Small Business Commissioner released a Vision Statement to provide a clear direction and intent for Councils wanted to assist small business to thrive through collaboration and practical action.  An updated Small Business Friendly Council Charter provides pro-active ways business and State and Local Government can work together to strengthen the local economy through collaboration, transparency and using a problem-solving mindset.

As a member of the Small Business Friendly Council Program, Council will demonstrate it's commitment to championing small business success in Gawler and the region.

Australian Supplier Payment Code

The Australian Supplier Code is an initiative of the Australian Business Council.

As a signatory to the Code, Council is committed to:

  1. Pay small business suppliers within 30 days (subject to conditions)
  2. Pay all suppliers on time
  3. Provide clear guidance about payment procedures to suppliers
  4. Work with suppliers to improve invoicing and payments practices
  5. A process for resolving payment disputes and complaints
  6. Basic reporting on company policies and practices in place to comply with the Code.