Small businesses in Australia's most competitive markets are setting a risky precedent when it comes to business planning in key areas of marketing, cashflow and growth, according to a recent survey.

New research, commissioned by Bibby Financial Services, shows that around one in three small businesses in NSW, Victoria and Queensland does not usually plan its growth potential, cashflow or marketing activity, or if it does, then only on an ad hoc basis.

Planning for growth proved the most overlooked aspect of business planning with 44% of the 647 businesses surveyed responding that they do not usually plan or do so only informally.

Find out more at www.ferret.com.au.