Queensland is home to more than 452,000 small businesses (those employing less than 20 people) and they represent over 97% of businesses statewide, and employ approximately 42% of all private-sector workers.
There are a range of Government and non-government tools, services and grants to support small businesses. Many of these resources are free and under utilised.
To help you, we’ve created a list of the top business support tools for 2021.
1. COVID-19 Support
There is no doubt that the COVID-19 pandemic has had an enormous impact on small business. If your business income has been impacted by health directives there is some help at hand.
- The Queensland Government has developed a COVID-19 Assistance finder to help you identify what financial assistance you might be eligible for
- The Australian Government has introduced a SME Recovery Loan Scheme and Temporary Full Expensing (tax relief)
For individuals
If you are an individual who lost your income or job due to COVID-19, you may be eligible for the Australian Government disaster payment of up to $750 per week.
2. Advice for starting and running a business
The ATO has a quick and easy to read guide on whether you are actually starting a business (or if it’s just a hobby), how to choose your business structure and understand your tax and payroll obligations.
Business Queensland has a comprehensive guide and specific industry licensing information about how to start and run a business in Queensland.
Advance Queensland has a range of incubator and grants programs for innovation businesses.
3. Support for established businesses
The Department of Employment Small Business and Training has a range of events, mentor programs, awards and grants.
The Chamber of Commerce and Industry Queensland has some great advice on HR, staff training, contracts and policies.
Business.gov has some handy checklists for how to grow your business and a separate site to assist Australian businesses looking to export.
4. News and Networks
Flying Solo is a news and community for sole traders.
Business in Brisbane is a Brisbane City Council initiative to support small business in Brisbane
Brisbane Small Business is a business directory and facebook group.
Business Station is a not-for-profit private enterprise to provide business support including training, office space and digital advisory.
*Note this article is not a complete list of services available to you and is intended for general advice only. It does not take into account your circumstances or consitute any financial advice.
