Rockhampton Regional Council is in the running for gold at this year's Small Business Friendly (SBF) Program Awards. Hosted by the Queensland Small Business Commissioner, the awards recognise the efforts of Local Governments in creating vibrant, small business-friendly communities.
Rockhampton Regional Council has been named as a Member of the Year Finalist, alongside Sunshine Coast Council and Ipswich City Council.
Mayor Tony Williams said the nomination is a demonstration of the ongoing work being done by Council and its economic development arm, Advance Rockhampton, to create a thriving business community.
"It's an enormous honour to receive this nomination, made possible by the tireless work of our passionate Council staff, and the backing of local business leaders," Mayor Williams said.
"Since joining the Small Business Friendly Program in 2021, Advance Rockhampton has delivered dozens of industry engagements, training and skills sessions, educational programs and grants specifically targeted at small businesses.
"Right across Council, we stick by our commitment to support local business for purchasing and procurement wherever possible. This keeps millions of dollars within our Regional economy, creating jobs and opportunities for small businesses.
"While this award nomination provides significant encouragement, we know and appreciate that we need to continue aiding businesses and are continually looking at ways to do so.
The number of small businesses in the Rockhampton Region has climbed by almost 9% since Council joined the Small Business Friendly Program. As of 2024, there are 5,450+ small businesses in the Region.
Advance Rockhampton Economic Development Manager, Wade Clark, said the Region is on the radar for businesses looking to expand, invest and grow.
"The staggering growth of small businesses in the Rockhampton Region shows the benefits of a business-focused unit like Advance Rockhampton delivering programs which enhance, support and drive the local economy," Mr Clark said.
"In the last 12 months, we've provided small business workshops covering digital skills, hosted the CQ Small Business Expo, providing funding for CBD businesses through the Prosperous Precincts Grant Program, launched the Maximising Local Jobs and Content in Major Projects Program, and worked with the Capricornia Chamber of Commerce to connect with small businesses at the coal face.
"On top of all that, what makes the Rockhampton Region an attractive place for small business is our amazing lifestyle, work/life balance and the confidence of our diverse and resilient economy."
The Small Business Friendly Program Member of the Year will be announced at the Small Business Friendly Conference on 29 May.
