Brisbane, 21 August 2024 – The Small Business Association of Australia (SBAA) is proud to announce the adoption of the Small Business Charter of Australia by the Queensland Government. This landmark decision marks a significant step forward in supporting and empowering small businesses across the state.
The Charter, which has been in development since 2018, is a comprehensive framework designed to address the core needs of small businesses. It is built on ten pillars: entrepreneurship, industrial relations, technology, competitiveness, finance, tax, regulation, trade, education and training, and climate change/energy. The Charter aims to create a supportive environment where small businesses can thrive, innovate, and contribute to the national economy.
A key component of the Charter is the “Think Small Business” principle. This principle emphasizes the need for policymakers to prioritize the needs of small businesses when creating legislation and policies. By adopting a “Think Small Business” mindset, the Charter ensures that the unique challenges and opportunities faced by small businesses are at the forefront of policy decisions. This approach helps in reducing regulatory burdens and fosters an environment where small businesses can flourish without being overshadowed by larger enterprises.
Anne Nalder, Founder and CEO of the Small Business Association of Australia, expressed her gratitude and excitement:
“This is a monumental milestone for the Small Business Association of Australia and for every small business in Queensland. The adoption of the Small Business Charter of Australia by the Queensland Government is a testament to the importance of small businesses and their vital role in our economy. We are immensely proud of this achievement and look forward to seeing the positive impact it will have on small businesses across the state.”
Minister for Employment and Small Business and Minister for Training and Skills Development, Lance McCallum MP, emphasized the importance of the Charter in fostering a sustainable economic environment:
“Our small businesses are the engine room of the economy, the heart and soul of our communities, and there is no better place in the country to be a small business owner, operator, or worker than Queensland”.
“We can thank a small business – our local tradies, hairdressers, and cafe owners – and those that support them with initiatives like the Small Business Charter of Australia for growing our economy and supporting our regions and local communities”.
“The Miles Government is so serious about our commitment that our new Queensland Small Business Strategy: powering small business provides a $250 million boost to the opportunities, capability, and diversity of Queensland’s small business sector”.
“Our new plan for the future will deliver a range of actions over three years to support and enable small businesses to thrive and combat the pressures associated with the cost-of-doing business”.
“By adopting the Small Business Charter of Australia, the Miles Labor Government is reaffirming our commitment to creating a supportive and inclusive environment for small businesses.”
The Small Business Association of Australia extends its heartfelt thanks to the Premier of Queensland, Steven Miles, and Minister Lance McCallum MP for their support and leadership in championing this cause. The SBAA looks forward to working closely with the Queensland Government to implement the principles of the Charter and drive positive change for small businesses across the state.
You can download a copy of the Small Business Charter of Australia here.
For more information, please contact:
Media enquiries: Belinda Wilson, Small Business Association of Australia
Contact: 0411 855 747 or email belinda@smallbusinessassociation.com.au
