As I reflect on 2024–25, it’s clear the Queensland Small Business Commissioner (QSBC) team has delivered real, tangible outcomes for small businesses across the state.
Small businesses are the backbone of Queensland’s economy, and everything we do at the QSBC is about cutting red tape, resolving disputes quickly, and helping businesses thrive. This year, we’ve made a measurable difference—especially in dispute resolution.
Here’s the big picture: in 2024–25, we resolved 71% of leasing disputes in an average of just 36 days. For cases requiring mediation, the cost was kept low at $185.50 per party—a small price compared to the time and money saved. In fact, we estimate these early resolutions saved Queensland small businesses up to $22.7 million and avoided a staggering 29,900 weeks of prolonged disputes. That’s time and money business owners can reinvest into growing their ventures and supporting their communities.
Our work with QCAT (Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal) has also been a game-changer. Since our office has been re-focused on dispute management, we’ve potentially saved parties with business-to-business disputes 2,200 weeks in QCAT proceedings and $8,630 per applicant in filing fees. It’s all about ensuring fast, fair, and affordable access to resolution services for small and family businesses.
But our impact goes beyond disputes. Just this month, we’ve been out and about, championing small businesses and shaping the future of Queensland’s business ecosystem.
- Celebrating Excellence: We supported the Central Highlands Business Excellence Awards as a judge, recognising the innovation, resilience, and leadership of regional businesses.
- Strengthening Supply Chains: At a round table hosted by Minister Ros Bates MP and Trade Investment Queensland CEO Justin McGowan, we tackled key challenges and opportunities in Queensland’s supply chains, ensuring small business voices were front and centre.
- Inspiring the Next Generation: Through the Future Anything Activator Program, we’ve supported emerging entrepreneurs in schools, helping to spark the next wave of small business ideas.
- Learning and Advocating: At the 2025 COSBOA Summit, we gained valuable insights into national small business challenges and innovations. From mental health support to digital transformation and stronger local government roles, these takeaways are shaping how we advocate for Queensland businesses.
As 2025 winds down, our focus remains clear: delivering practical, proactive support to the small businesses that keep Queensland running. Whether it’s resolving disputes, pushing for policy reform, or amplifying entrepreneurial voices, we’re here for you.
To every small business we’ve worked with this year—thank you. Your resilience and passion inspire us daily. Together, we’re making Queensland one of the best places in Australia to start, grow, and sustain a small business.
Upcoming activities
- 02 September – Public Sector Network – Digital Leadership Day QLD 2025
- 10 September – Tambourine Business Chamber Event – Helping Mountain Businesses Thrive
- 15-19 September – Far North Queensland Regional Visit
- 22 September – Australian Dispute Centre National Mediation Conference 2025
- 25 September – Coraggio + The Change Room | Business Leaders Breakfast
- 26 September – Master Electricians Australia National Industry Awards Gala Dinner
Dominique Lamb
Queensland Small Business Commissioner
For more details, read the QSBC newsletter August 2025