Connecting with Queensland small businesses

Dave Whitson, Vice President, Mackay Region Chamber of Commerce, addressing Regulator Rally attendees in Mackay




It is important for the Queensland Small Business Champion to engage with small businesses right across the state. This provides genuine insights about the realities experienced and strengthens lines of communication between the small business community and government.

The Queensland Small Business Champion takes every opportunity to hit the streets and speak face to face with Queensland’s small businesses around the state. By hearing small businesses’ concerns and sharing their stories, the Champion aims to strengthen the lines of communication between the small business sector and the Queensland Government.

The Queensland Small Business Champion hosted the Queensland Government's first two Regulator Rally events in the first half of 2018.
The Regulator Rally events connect small business attendees with a range of federal, state and local regulators, and offer an opportunity to network with other small businesses in the region.

The first Regulator Rally was held in Mackay in partnership with the Mackay Region Chamber of Commerce, and the second in Toowoomba during Queensland Small Business Week. Key discussion points included top tips and resources for small business, the Australian Taxation Office’s new Single Touch Payroll system, illegal phoenixing and emerging/disruptive business models in the hospitality sector.

The Queensland Small Business Champion also joined Queensland’s Chief Entrepreneur, Steve Baxter, on a tour of North West Queensland. This was a great chance to meet local business owners and share some insights on entrepreneurship, innovation and the impact of digital opportunities for small business in the regions.