Micro Finance Fund

In reply to the Hon. A.L. McLACHLAN (2 July 2015).

The Hon. K.J. MAHER (Minister for Manufacturing and Innovation, Minister for Automotive Transformation, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and Reconciliation): I am advised:

The independent experts are drawn from a range of entrepreneurial people with substantial experience with start-up businesses across a range of industries. Typically, they will either be running their own businesses or working with start-ups and in the entrepreneurial community as mentors, advisors, consultants, or educators. This strengthens the assessment process as the panel can match an appropriate expert with an applicants' industry sector.

The Department of State Development advises it does not publicly name the external industry experts to protect their independence and to prevent any lobbying or undue influence by applicants to the program or the individual member being contacted to obtain feedback on specific applications.

There is no remuneration paid; external members provide their services on a voluntary basis.