Policy should not ignore sole traders, the small business ombudsman says, pointing to the growth and diversity of entrepreneurs striking out on their own. Many of those sole traders nowrun a business alongside other work obligations, instead of devoting all their time to solo entrepreneurship. The data shows the number of women working as sole traders grew 31% between 2017-18 and 2021-22, far outpacing the 15% growth for men. This change overlaps with caring responsibilities: women sole traders were primarily responsible for a growing number of sole traders providing unpaid care over the same period. “If Australia is truly the land of opportunity and entrepreneurship, we must ensure sole traders – in all their variety – get the recognition and support they deserve,” said Billson.