9 March 2025
As February draws to a close and we look towards the months ahead, Queensland’s small business community is setting its sights on the future. This year’s theme for May’s Queensland Small Business Month—Future Ready—is about real, practical support and a call to action to build the resilience, skills, and connections you need to seize new opportunities. Find out more below.
In this edition, we’ve also compiled essential tools and updates to help you stay ahead. From grants and support, to practical advice navigating the right insurance, we’re here to support you in building a business that’s ready to thrive.
Get ready for Queensland Small Business Month
Queensland Small Business Month (QSBM) is returning this May, and the program is packed with more events to help small businesses thrive. This year’s theme, Future Ready, is about giving you the tools, knowledge and confidence to adapt to change and seize new opportunities—including those leading up to the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games. Whether you’re a small business owner, a local council, or an industry leader, there are three ways to get involved. Find out how.
Secure Communities Partnership Program
Small businesses can still apply for the Secure Communities Partnership Program. Grants of $5,000 to $20,000 are available to help businesses upgrade or install new equipment to make their premises safer and more resilient. A 50% co-contribution is required.
We have expanded eligibility to include businesses that have been impacted by crime in the past five years or those within 250 metres of another commercial premises impacted by crime in the past five years. Applications will remain open until funding is fully allocated or by 30 June 2026.
A second round for local governments has also opened. Councils can submit up to two applications for infrastructure projects that will improve the amenity or safety of places where small businesses operate. Applications close at 5pm, 31 March 2026. This round follows the $9.6 million that was allocated to 42 projects through the program’s first round.
Subsidies for apprentice wages are still available
| If you’re a small business in the construction industry, you may be eligible for an apprentice wage subsidy through our Small Business Apprenticeship Pilot Program. Places are still available in the program which helps cover the wages of apprentices in construction, plumbing, engineering, and electrical trades. The program offers 50% of typical wage costs for first and second year apprentices and 25% of typical wage costs for third and fourth years, while they attend training. Click for full eligibility criteria and conditions. |  |
Need help breaking into new global markets?
Further your business growth strategy by registering for the inaugural Queensland Exporter Conference on 12 March at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre.
This complimentary full-day event offers direct access to Global Trade Commissioners and sector-specific sessions to help you scale with confidence.
Apply for the program or register to attend.
Free cyber security training for small businesses
Protecting your business from cybercrime is more important than ever. The good news is you don’t have to fight this battle alone. You and your staff can get free, on-demand training through the Cyber Wardens program.
Disaster response and recovery
Small businesses in eligible local government areas can still apply for grants, in addition to other financial support, to help with clean up and recovery works. A range of grants and loans are also available for primary producers.
If you were affected by Ex-TC Alfred, please note that applications for Rural Landholder Recovery Grants close 1 April 2026, and Exceptional Disaster Assistance Recovery Grants close 2 April 2026.
This support is jointly funded by the Commonwealth and Queensland Governments.
Check disaster.qld.gov.au for the latest information.
Checked your business insurance lately?
Weighing up the costs and risks of different business insurance options can seem difficult, but the Business Queensland website has easy to follow information, tools and other contacts to help you make an informed choice. This is an important consideration for many small businesses. You may be interested to know the Australian Government is conducting an inquiry on small business insurance that will report later this year.
Support to get a better handle on your books
If interest rates and other costs are starting to bite, a financial health check can help assess the current position of your business. The Business Queensland website has information and links to improve your bottom line understanding, ways to track and better manage your current processes and options you can consider to improve your position.
Nominate for the 2026 Queensland Training Awards
Is training helping your business grow? Nominate yourself or your staff for a 2026 Queensland Training Award.
Get started:
- Join a webinar: We’re hosting sessions to walk you through the categories and show you exactly how to write a winning entry.
- Easier eligibility: We’ve simplified the rules to match national standards, so it’s now much easier to see which category fits your business.
- Deadline: All nominations must be in by 22 March 2026.