- Queenslanders urged to support small and family businesses this Christmas and shop local.
- Queensland small and family businesses offer unique and quality gifts for both online and face-to-face purchases.
- The Crisafulli Government is delivering a better lifestyle through a stronger economy and backing Queensland small and family businesses, with a range of programs and grants still open for applications.
Queenslanders are being encouraged to shop locally this festive season in support of the State's more than 495,000 small and family businesses.
Every dollar spent locally from Cairns to Coolangatta creates jobs and supports local communities, with unique and quality gifts available for purchase online or face-to-face.
According to the Australian Retailers Association, national pre-Christmas spending is forecast to reach $72.4 billion – a four per cent increase on 2024.
Small and family businesses across the State generate $131 billion for the Queensland economy and employ more than 1 million Queenslanders.
The Crisafulli Government is backing small and family businesses and delivering a better lifestyle through a stronger economy after a decade of decline under Labor.
There are a range of programs and grants currently open to provide support under the Crisafulli Government's Small and Family Business First Action Statement, including:
Business Growth Fund to help small and family businesses across all industries purchase specialised equipment to deliver business growth.
Secure Communities Partnership Program to boost the security of their business and deter criminal activity.
Small Business Apprenticeship Pilot Program to ease financial pressures on construction small businesses by subsidising the wages of apprentices during training.
Minister for Small and Family Business Steve Minnikin highlighted the diversity and quality of products and services offered by Queensland's small and family businesses.
"By choosing to shop locally, you're not just buying a product or service, you're putting small and family businesses first and supporting a dream, a family, and a community," Minister Minnikin said.
"From handmade gifts and locally grown produce to unique experiences and professional services, Queensland's small and family businesses have something for everyone.
"This festive season, I encourage everyone to take the time to explore your local shops, markets, and businesses.
"You'll not only find the perfect gifts for your loved ones but also help spread the festive cheer by supporting local families and communities."
Acting Queensland Small Business Commissioner Nicolle Kelly said the festive season played a crucial role in helping small businesses thrive.
"Small businesses are essential to our state, employing over 1.1 million people," Ms Kelly said.
"This is a critical time of year for a lot of small business owners and supporting them now ensures we have vibrant, resilient local economies throughout Queensland.
"For many local business owners, the next few weeks will make a big difference.
"Your support of their great products and services can help a small business to survive and thrive, allowing them to keep contributing to local jobs and strong communities."
