Paroo Shire Council officially becomes small business friendly

Small businesses in the Paroo Shire are set to benefit from a new Small Business Friendly Councils (SBFC) commitment made by Paroo Shire Council.

Minister for Employment and Small Business Di Farmer congratulated Paroo on its decision to join the growing network of councils that have signed the SBFC charter.

“There are over 448,000 small businesses across Queensland and they are at the core of the local communities in which they work, live and play. They are also crucial to the Palaszczuk Government’s  $14.5 billion COVID-19 Economic Recovery Plan,” Minister Farmer said.

As Minister for Small Business, one of things I love best about my job is talking to small business owners right across Queensland and in a variety of industries – they are a strong and resilient group and are at the heart of our communities.

“I am incredibly proud that the Small Business Friendly Council Program helps to create a supportive relationship between local governments and their small businesses so the local economy can thrive for the benefit of the entire community.

“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 make it easier and simpler for their small businesses to do business, help them become more resilient to face the challenges ahead and take advantage of any opportunities that arise.”

Paroo Shire Council Mayor Suzette Beresford acknowledged the significant role small businesses play within the Paroo Shire.

“Without small businesses, Paroo Shire would be void of many essential goods and services. It’s crucial as a Council we work to support local business owners to ensure they have what they need from us to not only keep their doors open but thrive.” Mayor Beresford said.

Paroo Shire Council CEO Cassandra White said while she was at the helm small business would remain a top priority for Council.

“Small businesses are the heartbeat of our community. Paroo Shire Council under my leadership will continue to buy local and support local business to encourage survival, growth and sustainability,” Ms White said.

Queensland Small Business Commissioner Maree Adshead co-signed the SBFC charter with Minister Farmer, Paroo Shire Council Mayor Suzette Beresford, and Paroo Shire Council CEO Cassandra White said she is happy to hear about Council putting small business at the forefront when making decisions.

“I am very happy to hear that Council is simplifying administration and regulation for small businesses in the Shire by ensuring funding opportunities are being shared, payment processes are being streamlined, and training events are being hosted,” Ms Adshead said.

“Putting small business needs and priorities at the forefront when making important decisions is exactly what it means to be a Small Business Friendly Council.”

“I look forward to working with all to cultivate relationships with small businesses in the Paroo Shire and better understand their needs.”

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 40 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.

Find out more about the Small Business Friendly Councils (SBFC) Program at www.business.qld.gov.au/qsbc or by phoning 1300 312 344.