QUEENSLAND’s small and family business sector has reached a major milestone, surpassing half a million enterprises for the first time – and Ipswich is firmly at the forefront of that growth.
Small businesses are the backbone of the Ipswich economy, accounting for the vast majority of registered enterprises across the city.
Mayor Teresa Harding said the figures reflected the strength, resilience and community spirit of local operators.
“We have 13,049 local businesses calling Ipswich home, with 12,747 of those being small businesses,” Cr Harding said.
“Every café, every tradesperson and every family-run shop contributes to the strength and character of our community.
“As a former small business owner, I know that every time you shop locally, you’re investing in Ipswich’s future – supporting local jobs, creating opportunities and building long-term prosperity.”
Mayor Harding said Ipswich’s pro-business approach was delivering real results, with the city recently reaffirming its commitment by re-signing into the Small Business Friendly Council program – the first council in Queensland to achieve the status.
“That commitment is reflected in our 4.2 per cent economic growth last year, pushing Ipswich’s economy past the $15 billion mark and outpacing many of our South East Queensland neighbours,” she said.
“This momentum is no accident. It’s the result of strong partnerships with our chambers of commerce, local business leaders and the family businesses that drive innovation across our region.”
Council initiatives such as partnerships with the Ipswich and Greater Springfield chambers of commerce, and targeted support programs were creating clear pathways for new and emerging enterprises.
“Ipswich’s greatest asset is its people. When we back our small businesses, we build a stronger future for our city,” Mayor Harding said.
For local café owner Lorisha Reddy, the milestone highlights both the opportunity and the challenges facing small operators.
Ms Reddy, who runs The Coffee Exchange Express on Bell St, said striking a balance between affordable prices and quality service remained a daily struggle.
“It’s tough out there,” she said.
“Bell St feels like it’s flying under the radar, even though the train station is right there.
“With a bit of TLC – renovations, a marketing boost, maybe outdoor seating or public art – it could really come to life.
“When small businesses succeed, everyone benefits. Bell St deserves that chance.”
Across the state, small and family businesses now contribute an estimated $132 billion to the Queensland economy each year.
They employ more than 1.045 million Queenslanders, cementing their role as a cornerstone of both economic growth and community life.
With the sector continuing to grow, Ipswich’s strong local foundations are helping drive confidence in Queensland’s economic future – one small business at a time.
