RED tape, disaster recovery and insurance were just some of the topics that came up at a special event to celebrate Queensland Small Business Month (QSBM).
QSBM is recognised in May every year and the Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry (WCCI) held a special event for local businesses, on Tuesday, May 13, 2025.
According to a Federal Government profile of the Whitsundays, there are 3,994 businesses in the region and 3,858 are classified as small businesses ie. less than 20 employees.
Small businesses are vital to the Whitsundays, helping to drive the region’s economy and providing employment for local residents.
The guest speakers at the special QSBM event, held at the Whitsunday Sailing Club, were:
- Dominique Lamb, Queensland Small Business Commissioner
- The Hon. Amanda Camm MP, Member for Whitsunday
- Mayor Ry Collins, Whitsunday Regional Council
Each speaker was asked to talk about the following topics by MC Megan Taylor, who is a Chamber board member.
The topics explored were:
- Election Promise Report Card
- Lessons from TC Alfred
- Queensland 2032 Olympics opportunities
Following the panel discussion, attendees split into groups and came up with a list of Red Tape issues that they felt were hindering their businesses.
These will be collated and passed to the relevant government agency.
Queensland Government business assistance organisations were also on hand at the event to help businesses.
By logging onto www.business.qld.gov.au business owners and managers can access a range of services to help them, including free business mentoring, financial counselling and wellness coaching.
Other programs on offer include Business Concierge, Disaster Recovery, Supplying to the Queensland Government and Small Business Grants.
WCCI’s purpose is to unite and empower Whitsunday businesses by advocating, supporting and fostering a thriving and collaborative business environment.
To find out more visit www.whitsundaycoastchamber.com.au.
