50 Percent Surge in Small Business Complaints Driven by Payment Issues: Watchdog

Insolvency issues are also surging with small business owners with a 50 percent spike in complaints.

People shop for fruit and vegetables at a market in Melbourne, Australia, on June 11, 2021. William West/AFP via Getty Images

An Australian watchdog says complaints from small business owners surged 50 percent since last year, with the majority concerned about being paid on time.

The Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman (ASBFEO) said 42 percent of complaints involved requests for assistance to deal with payment disputes, up from 36 percent last year.