Small businesses in the Maranoa region are set to benefit from a new Small Business Friendly Councils (SBFC) commitment made by Maranoa Regional Council.
Minister for Employment and Small Business Di Farmer welcomed Maranoa to the growing list of councils that have signed the SBFC charter.
"Small businesses are the heart and hubs of our local communities and are crucial to our $14.5 billion COVID-19 Economic Recovery Plan," Minister Farmer said.
"They are our families, our friends, our neighbours and they keep our communities strong.
"It's fantastic to see so many councils have committed to the Small Business Friendly Councils Program, with many others lining up to join them.
"When a council joins the Small Business Friendly Councils family, they are pledging their commitment to support small businesses in their communities and help the local economy thrive."
Maranoa Regional Council Mayor Tyson Golder said signing the SBFC charter celebrates and recognises the Maranoa small business community.
"Signing this charter is an important step in recognising the vital contribution small businesses make to the Maranoa region. We have many small businesses that contribute to our economic growth and provide essential goods and services to our community," Mayor Golder said.
"We are proud to be joining the Small Business Friendly Program so that we can demonstrate our commitment to supporting small businesses across the region.
"By signing the SBFC charter, Council aims to create opportunities and enhance the operating environment for small business."
Queensland Small Business Commissioner Maree Adshead co-signed the SBFC charter with Maranoa Regional Council Mayor Tyson Golder said she is looking forward to working with Council to cultivate relationships with small businesses in the Maranoa region and to better understand their needs.
"The signing of this charter marks a commitment to putting small business needs and priorities more front of mind when making policy decisions, regulatory decisions and purchasing decisions," Ms Adshead said.
"I am pleased to hear Council is focusing on making it easier for small businesses to work with Council through measures such as simplifying the tender process, improving payment terms, and communicating upcoming projects and tender opportunities," Ms Adshead said.
"I look forward working with all concerned to bring real benefits to the local small business community in the Maranoa region."
The SBFC Program has been developed by the Small Business Commissioner and aims to recognise and encourage councils to actively support small businesses.
There are currently 43 SBFC across Queensland who have signed the SBFC charter and pledging the following to their small business communities:
• communicate and engage
• raise small businesses profile and capability
• support resilience and recovery
• simplify administration and regulation (red tape reduction)
• ensure fair procurement and prompt payment terms
• promote place-based activities.
