June has been a huge month for small business, with more SBF Program member councils across Queensland recommitting to being more small business friendly. We have been working closely with local chambers of commerce and councils to roll out a refreshed program based on five key principles and 15 practical actions (deliverables) —designed to support your business, no matter where you are based.
At the QSBC, we often hear from business owners dealing with landlord issues, supplier disputes, or just feeling stuck. Every call matters to us, and you can feel safe knowing our team listens with kindness to help you get the best result for your situation.
We are proud to say we resolve 71% of landlord-tenant matters in an average of 35 days for around $185 —compared to up to 86 weeks and around $130,000 through QCAT or a court. We are also seeing great results in business-to-business disputes through our free informal resolution service, helping parties to negotiate and reach agreement outside of the courts. If a trader-to-trader matter progresses to QCAT it is currently 46 weeks before it is likely to be finalised. We are here for all 495,000 Queensland small businesses. Our job is to make it easier for you to get help, fast.
One story that stayed with me was from a recent visit to remote Queensland. An elderly couple who had spent their lives serving their local town were facing financial hardship and losing hope for retirement. We connected them with a Small Business Financial Counsellor, who helped negotiate with their bank to waive a massive debt—giving them a fresh start and the freedom to finally retire.
It is stories like this that show the power of the Small Business Support Network. That is why we are thrilled to see the program extended to June 2028, backed by $16.8 million in the 2025-26 Queensland Budget announced this week. Whether it is financial counselling or wellness coaching, the support is here—please reach out if you need it.
What else does the Queensland Budget announcement hold for small business? Here are a few highlights we are excited about:
- $1 billion Queensland Government Digital Fund for better digital systems across government to bring you better services.
- $130 million in new small business grants and programs, including:
- $19 million to help small and family businesses with the cost of apprentice wages
- new grants programs for construction and professional care businesses
- $40 million for the Secure Communities Partnership Program for small businesses and local government to implement measures to improve community safety and prevent crime; and
- $1 million for the Small and Family Business Innovation Pathway to directly engage small and family businesses for short term initiatives to solve specific problems or improve government service delivery.
There is more to come, and we will keep you updated as these programs roll out. If you need support, do not wait—our team is here to help.
Upcoming activities
- 23 July – Lord Mayor’s Women in Business Luncheon
- 25 July – Brisbane North Chamber of Commerce Emerging Leaders Breakfast
- 25 July – Food and Agribusiness Network (FAN) Meet the Makers Event
- 26 July – LatinOz Queensland – QWINBIZ Workshop
- 26 July – Lions Club – Chinese 30th Anniversary & Changeover Dinner
Connect with us
If you are new to our newsletter or want to learn more about our services, resources, initiatives, and projects, visit the QSBC website. If you need more information, call us on 1300 312 344 or submit an enquiry.
Dominique Lamb
Queensland Small Business Commissioner
For more details, read the QSBC newsletter June 2025