Google, MYOB lure 4100 SMEs into free website service

More than 4100 local businesses have taken up Google and MYOB’s “getting Aussie business online” joint marketing campaign in the three weeks since its launch.

That makes it eight businesses every hour according to the two companies.

Earlier this month, Google and MYOB launched the gettingbuisnessonline.com.au portal to offer 50,000 free websites for local small businesses this year.

MYOB CEO, Tim Reed, said the uptake is a “clear sign that once you remove the barriers of cost, lack of knowledge and time for Aussie business owners, they are keen to get online and be part of the digital economy”.

One small business, Cakes by Nadia in Illawong, NSW, has taken up the offer.

Owner Nadia French said it is imperative for a small business to have this type of online presence.

“Customers simply don’t think you’re legitimate without one and Getting Aussie Business Online has filled that need for me very easily and fast,” she said.

Claire Hatton, head of local business for Google Australia said there were nearly 15,000 searches for “cakes sydney” last month.

After the first year, businesses can choose to pay $5 per month to maintain their website, which can be cancelled at any time.

The .com.au domain is free for the first two years, after which businesses can expect to pay about $30 a year to renew it, according to the companies.

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