Having a plan can make all the difference for a small business when faced with a disruption or event.
Economic and Industry Development Committee Chairperson Councillor Nicole Jonic said free business continuity workshops hosted by council would be held in Rosewood, Springfield and Ipswich Central for Small Business Month in May.
“Ipswich businesses have been doing it tough since the start of the pandemic, and now recently with the flood,” Cr Jonic said.
“These free workshops will cover topics from understanding risk, scenario planning, and reviewing and practicing their plan.
“We encourage local businesses to register for these practical workshops that will enable them to develop their business continuity plan.”
Council is supporting local businesses with practical workshops and coaching. Learn scenario planning for disruptions to your workplace, identifying key personnel, and systems management.
Don’t let planning be the difference your business needs following a disruption or event.
- Rosewood Showgrounds – Wednesday 11 May, 5.30pm
- YMCA Springfield Central Community Centre – Wednesday 18 May, 7.30pm
- Fire Station 101 Ipswich – Tuesday 31 May, 5.30pm
Bookings are via the Office of Economic Development Eventbrite page.
Cr Jonic said council was proud to have a range of initiatives that benefited local small business and the economy.
“Council continues to support a seven-day quick payment policy and the ‘Buy Ipswich’ procurement policy, which supports Ipswich businesses as a priority,” Cr Jonic said.
“Buy Ipswich continues to deliver significant support to Ipswich businesses, with $54 million spent with local suppliers in Ipswich in the past financial year.
“That’s around 40 per cent of council suppliers that are locals, double the number in the previous financial year.”
A range of support and information is available for Ipswich businesses impacted by recent rainfall and floods.
Visit Business Ipswich for information to help you get back on your feet.
For information on Personal Hardship Assistance and Essential Services Hardship Assistance, contact the Community Recovery Hotline 1800 173 349 or visit www.qld.gov.au/community/disasters-emergencies
Other grants such the Essential Household Contents Grant, Structural Assistance Grant and Essential Services Safety and Reconnection Grant, which are income tested, are also available to eligible residents who are uninsured and have experienced certain loss or damage following this disaster.
Community Recovery online portal at www.communityrecovery.qld.gov.au
Part of a sports club or organisation? The Sport and Recreation Disaster Recovery Program supports not-for-profit sport and recreation organisations with funding to re-establish facilities and activities after extreme natural events.
Funding of up to $20,000 may be available for eligible sport and active recreation organisations located in areas declared under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA).
For more information, visit www.qld.gov.au/recreation/sports/funding/disaster-recovery
Cr Jonic said council had also provided business support in the wake of the pandemic and flood.
“Since the beginning of the pandemic, council has provided more than $2 million in COVID-19 relief for local businesses, artists, sporting and community organisations, including more than $270,000 in direct payments to 192 local small businesses,” Cr Jonic said.
“Council has also waived a range of fees for local businesses impacted by the flood, from February 2022 to 30 June 2023, as part of council’s Flood Assistance Package.”
Cr Jonic said council also provided opportunity for local small businesses and trades to become preferred suppliers for works and services up to $200,000.
“This pilot program is aimed at getting builders, plumbers, gas fitters, electricians, concreters and a range of others on our local approved suppliers list and panel of providers,” Cr Jonic said.
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