Gender issues in home-based business operation and training : an Australian overview

Recent research has shown that home-based businesses (HBBs) are increasing, and that a significant number of women are seeking such self-employment. Summarizes the results of a recent large-scale survey examining various aspects of HBB operation in Australia. Finds that there are significant gender differences associated with HBB operation, including reasons for HBB start-up, life stage and age of operator, business assistance, and the perceived negative factors associated with HBB operation. Also notes that some training issues differ significantly with respect to the propensity to undertake training and the type of training preferred and finds that the majority of female operators are operating their HBB with children at home. Calls for more research into the implications of HBB operators working at home with their children.