Charter signing reaffirms Council commitment to small business

Redland City Council has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting small businesses on Redlands Coast by joining the Small Business Friendly (SBF) program.

Mayor Karen Williams said the program, which was developed by the Queensland Small Business Commissioner, was a welcome addition to initiatives Council had already implemented to support local businesses.

“Council recognises the importance and role small businesses play in developing and diversifying the Redlands economy, while also increasing the economy’s resilience,” Cr Williams said.

“They create local jobs, provide essential goods and services, and can help create liveable communities and foster civic pride, which assists in attracting investment into the area.

“This is why Council remains committed to doing what it can to continue supporting our businesses, which is vital in the face of the economic ripple effects of the global COVID-19 pandemic.

“This Small Business Friendly program also aligns with Council’s 2014-2041 Economic Development Framework, which sets out a clear direction for business growth and job generation in collaboration with business and industry representatives.”

Cr Williams co-signed the SBF charter with Queensland Small Business Commissioner Maree Adshead, Minister for Employment and Small Business Di Farmer, Redlands Coast Chamber of Commerce President Rebecca Young, SMBI Chamber of Commerce President Shane Rendalls and Straddie Chamber of Commerce President Colin Battersby.

Cr Williams said many of the commitments to support small businesses, as outlined in the charter, were already being implemented by Council.

“This includes business newsletters and networking forums, COVID-19 awareness sessions, providing businesses with economic research support, and connecting local businesses with grant, trade and investment opportunities,” she said.

“We also provide increased flexibility in many regulatory requirements, give preference to local suppliers and have strengthened fast-track payments to businesses.”

Cr Williams said Council had recently launched an innovative new resource for the local business community – Invest Redlands Coast, a microsite that featured information such as key demographics, major projects, resources, news, events and contact information for businesses and investors.

“This site tells the outside world why they should consider investing and doing business on Redlands Coast – showcasing our project pipeline, highlighting our key precincts and focusing on our key growth industries,” she said.

“It is another product of Redland City Council’s commitment to sustainably grow the city’s economy through collaboration with business, industry and government agencies.

“The signing of the Small Business Friendly charter by Council, the State Government and local Chambers of Commerce is further support of all parties committing to a prosperous and sustainable small business sector on Redlands Coast.”