BUSINESS is at the forefront of the future of Queensland’s economy, with the State Government calling for business owners to have their say on ways to reduce red tape.
In the Ipswich region alone as of May 2024, there were 12,382 registered businesses, including 573 new businesses registered from 2022-23.
The Ipswich City Council’s Economic Development Strategy for 2023-2027 predicts that the local economy could reach over $18 billion by 2027.
Last week, the Government announced the Queensland Small Business Commissioner would have new focus on reducing red tape for small and family businesses, delivering on a key commitment of its 100-Day Plan.
Another key focus will be on dispute resolution, identifying practical solutions which will in turn save small and family businesses time and money.
Small and family businesses employ more than one million Queenslanders, making them among the largest employers in the state.
Premier David Crisafulli said red tape had been weighing down business across Queensland for far too long.
“These are the first steps to unleashing the true potential of small and family businesses here in Queensland,” Mr Crisafulli said.
“With the refocusing of the Small Business Commissioner, we can ensure these small businesses spend more time ensuring their customers are serviced, rather than servicing government.”
Small and Family Business Minister Steve Minnikin said the refocus would enhance the operating environment for small and family-owned businesses to allow them to create jobs, drive innovation and provide essential goods and services to enhance all Queensland communities.
“There are almost 500,000 small and family businesses employing more than one million Queenslanders and it’s time to start reducing unnecessary barriers to allow them to succeed,” Mr Minnikin said.
“We want them to get on and operate in a business-friendly environment that fosters innovation.”
