The impact of financial knowledge and capabilities on SME firm performance in Australia.

This research links the literature on financial knowledge and capabilities and firm performance in Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs). Data has been collected from Small and Medium Enterprises operating in Australia. The analyses, using factor analysis and multiple regression analysis, gives rise to interesting outcomes. Based on investigations of the hypothesised relationships, it is found that a general business education (Master in Business Administration degree), and the firm’s learning orientation to be the most influential determinants and drivers of firm performance. A generalised understanding of business and the ability to learn, adapt and pivot is what matters. Interestingly, the analysis demonstrates that Chief Financial Officer (CFO) experience and the financial resource dimensions do not significantly influence firm performance.