Expressions of Interest (EOI) have opened for the Business Continuity Program, a series of expert-led workshops to improve economic resilience, preparedness and recovery in the face of natural disasters.
The program's launch coincides with the commencement of storm season and is delivered by Rockhampton Regional Council's Disaster Management team and its economic development arm, Advance Rockhampton.
Chair of the Rockhampton Region Local Disaster Management Group, Mayor Tony Williams, said the program aims to ease the burden on small and medium sized business during difficult times.
"We live in the most beautiful place in the world, and while it's been several years since our last major disaster, we can't afford to become complacent," Mayor Williams said.
"Whether it's fires, floods or storms, disasters can place a huge economic burden on business owners already dealing with the personal stress that comes with wild weather. They may be forced to close for weeks, operate without essential services, lose stock or be cut off from their customers.
"The Business Continuity Program will bring together experts in business planning and climate risks to equip businesses with the tools they need to prepare and bounce back from a disaster as efficiently as they can.
"Through this EOI process, we want to hear from our local businesses so we can deliver a program that caters to their needs and addresses their concerns."
Natural disasters are expected to cost the Queensland economy $530 billion between 2020 and 2060, according to the State Government's State Disaster Risk Report (2023).
Advance Rockhampton Economic Development Manager, Wade Clark, said the program is another initiative supporting Rockhampton's title as Small Business Friendly Council Program's Member of the Year.
"The Business Continuity Program is another way we can provide tangible assistance to our small business community, hopefully reducing the time and money involved in recovering from a disaster so they can get back to what they do best – looking after their customers," Mr Clark said.
"We also recognise business continuity is about more than natural disasters, so the program will provide information to help prepare for a broad range of unknown interruptions. This could include succession planning or unexpected illnesses, but through the EOI we're giving you the chance to tell us exactly what you'd like to see covered."
Businesses interested in participating should complete an EOI to provide feedback on preferred topics and workshop times. Businesses which submit an EOI will be the first to be notified when registrations open. Submit an EOI here - http://advancerockhampton.com.au/businesscontinuity
