About us
Nicolle Kelly
assumed the role of Acting Small Business Commissioner on 4 October 2025 while a recruitment process is undertaken to find the next Commissioner.
Nicolle grew up in a small business household and saw her parents live the realities of running a family business.
“I know what it takes to succeed, and the value small businesses contribute to their communities and the economy. I also understand how government works because I’ve spent a significant part of my career inside it and I know how to get things done.
“That makes me well placed to contribute to a fair and competitive trading landscape and ensure Queensland small businesses are heard, supported and respected.
“I’m honoured to be asked to act in this role and look forward to working with Minister Minnikin, and with my industry and government networks, to deliver for Queensland small and family businesses.
—Nicolle Kelly, Acting Small Business Commissioner
Statutory functions
The Queensland Small Business Commissioner (QSBC) commenced operation on 28 May 2020 under the COVID-19 Emergency Response Act 2020 (CER Act) and transitioned to a permanent service under the Small Business Commissioner Act 2022 (SBC Act) on 3 May 2022.
The main object of the SBC Act is to enhance the operating environment for small businesses in Queensland and reduce the time and costs associated with resolving disputes involving small businesses.
The SBC Act includes 8 functions for the small business commissioner (expanded from 5 under the temporary arrangements) including:
- to provide a central point of contact in relation to matters affecting small businesses; and
- to provide information and advisory services to the public about matters relating to small businesses; and
- to assist parties in reaching an informal resolution for small business disputes, including by facilitating the exchange of information between the parties; and
- to provide alternative dispute resolution services and administer a mediation process for small business disputes; and
- to advocate on behalf of small businesses to the State, the Commonwealth, another State or a local government; or any other entity involved in administering a matter relevant to small businesses; and
- to work collaboratively with the equivalent of the commissioner in other States or the Commonwealth to enhance conditions for small businesses; and
- to perform functions conferred on the commissioner under another Act; and
- to carry out other activities to further the objects of this Act, as directed by the Minister.
The QSBC provides a range of services for small businesses under the Small Business Commissioner Act 2022 including raising awareness, sharing information, advocacy, and providing support and assistance. The QSBC also has jurisdiction of retail tenancy disputes and related mediations under the Retail Shop Leases Act 1994 (RSL Act).
Between 28 May 2020 and 2 May 2022, the temporary QSBC operated under the CER Act, providing information and advice about small business matters, and dispute resolution support for small business, including the provision of mediation for parties involved in small business leasing disputes.
The Retail Shop Leases and Other Commercial Leases (COVID-19 Emergency Response) Regulation 2020 (the COVID Leases Regulation) prescribed the process for the QSBC to administer free mediation for parties involved in eligible lease disputes (being COVID–affected lease disputes and small business tenancy disputes). The COVID Leases Regulation was made under section 23 of the CER Act and section 121 of the RSL Act and expires on 30 April 2024.
Commissioner appointment
Nicolle Kelly was appointed as Acting Small Business Commissioner on 4 October 2025 under the Small Business Commissioner Act 2022.
Annual reports
Statutory decisions
The following statutory decisions have been made by the Acting Small Business Commissioner under the Small Business Commissioner Act 2022:
Statement of Expectations
On 7 October 2025, the Honourable Steve Minnikin, Minister for Customer Services and Open Data and Minister for Small and Family Business, gave the Acting Small Business Commissioner a Statement of Expectations.
On 21 October 2025, Nicolle Kelly, Acting Small Business Commissioner, gave the Minister a Statement of Intent.
Directions from the Minister
There are no current directions in writing from the Minister under the Small Business Commissioner Act 2022.
Our vision
Creating a supportive environment where Queensland small businesses can thrive.
Our promise
We are committed to supporting all Queensland small and family businesses.
We value empathy, respect, and inclusion in every interaction, ensuring everyone feels heard and valued.
Our services aim to promote success, sustainability, and wellbeing for businesses and the broader community.
Our goals
We understand the unique needs of Queensland small and family businesses and know that a one-size-fits-all approach doesn’t work. To support their success, we will:
Be dedicated to our vision
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Empower self-reliance and deliver options promptly
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Offer accurate insights and act fairly within our responsibilities
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Work transparently and communicate in a straightforward, clear manner.
Deliver empathetic services
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Deliver empathetic services and support for everyone.
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Address individual needs, set clear timeframes, and meet deadlines
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Keep everyone informed and follow through on our commitments.
Provide practical solutions
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Create straightforward, integrated, and practical solutions
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Adapt our work practices as technology advances
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Listen actively to continually improve our services.