The new Queensland government will seek the views of small and family businesses for practical solutions to reduce red tape via more than 120 Chambers of Commerce across the state. Regulations for regional Qld small and family businesses are a key priority.

Small and Family Business Minister Steve Minnikin said Business Chamber Queensland estimated that the cost of regulation doubled in two years to $50,000 and they’re seeking examples of the problems.

“Some of the feedback includes language being too complicated, different information from different areas of government or duplication in auditing and monitoring requirements,” he said.

“Queensland has one of the highest rates of entry into small business. However small and family businesses are telling us that growing red tape and inefficient regulation is stifling their business growth and competitiveness.

Caloundra Chamber of Commerce CEO Lisa Bolton also welcomed the focus on streamlining red tape faced by Queensland businesses.

“Small and family businesses like OceanView Helicopters are at the heart of our tourism communities, providing services, training and products and it is imperative we reduce the hurdles they face,” she said.

“We want to ensure people from all backgrounds, with all experiences, are well-supported to start and operate small and family businesses.”
Queensland Small Business Commissioner Dominique Lamb said red tape reduction was the key to unlocking the growth for small businesses and reducing stress levels.

“I want to make sure small businesses across all of Queensland have access to information, guidance and assistance that makes their lives easier so that they can continue to contribute to our state’s economic future,” she said.

“I’ve committed to gathering insights into the small business experience when attempting to comply with regulation in Queensland and ensuring that those experiences are shared directly with the Minister and the relevant government agencies.”