Real Business Owners Share Their Budget Planning Experience
Running a small business means every dollar matters. Over the past three years, we've worked with dozens of Australian businesses helping them build practical budget systems that actually work day-to-day. Here's what some of them have to say about the process.
What Business Owners Tell Us
These are actual conversations we've had with clients about their budget planning journey. Everyone's situation is different, but you might recognize some familiar challenges.
I was tracking everything in my head before. Invoices, supplier costs, staff wages. It worked when we first opened but by year two I was losing track. The budget template we built together isn't fancy but it shows me exactly where we stand every week.
- Started working together February 2024
- Custom spreadsheet for hospitality costs
- Monthly check-ins to adjust forecasts
My problem was seasonal work. Three months of solid projects then nothing. We set up a system that smooths out the irregular income and shows me what to set aside during busy periods. Changed how I think about cashflow completely.
- Working together since August 2023
- Seasonal cashflow planning tools
- Quarterly reviews and adjustments
How We Actually Work With Clients
First Meeting Is About Understanding
We spend the first hour just listening. What's your business model? Where does money come in and go out? What's keeping you up at night financially? No templates yet, just conversation.
Build Something You'll Actually Use
Some clients need simple spreadsheets. Others want connected systems. We don't sell software or push specific tools. Whatever you're comfortable with is what we'll work in.
Regular Check-Ins That Adapt
Monthly calls for most clients. Some prefer quarterly. We review what's working and what isn't. Businesses change and budgets need to change with them. Nothing is set in stone.
Want to talk about your budget situation?
We're based in Dubbo but work with businesses across regional NSW. First conversation is always free and there's no pressure to sign up for anything.
Get in touchCommon Questions From New Clients
Do I need fancy accounting software?
Not necessarily. We've worked with businesses using everything from paper ledgers to Xero. The tool matters less than having a system you actually maintain. If you're comfortable with Excel, that's often enough.
How long does it take to set up?
First working budget usually takes two to three sessions over a month. Then we spend another month or two adjusting it as you use it. By month three most clients have something that runs itself with weekly updates.
What if my numbers are all over the place?
That's normal, especially for newer businesses or seasonal work. We start by tracking what's actually happening, not what you think should happen. Clean data comes later once you have a few months of honest tracking.
