The appointment Queensland’s first small business commissioner

The Southport Chamber fully supports this initiative by the QLD Government. Ensuring that landlord and tenants can reach equitable agreements will be key to the post-COVID recovery, getting all small businesses trading again as quickly as possible. We will continue to track the establishment of the commission and provide updates and assistance where we can.

Media statement

23 April 2020

The appointment Queensland’s first small business commissioner will be beneficial to help with dispute resolution, especially in the months to come said the Chamber of Commerce and Industry Queensland (CCIQ).

CCIQ’s general manager of advocacy and policy, Amanda Rohan, said with the current uncertainty surrounding tenancies and landlord agreements, the aim of this new role to effectively and efficiently resolve disputes, without resorting to costly court proceedings, is welcomed.

“We have previously called on the State Government to provide a dispute resolution mechanism for small businesses," Ms Rohan said.

“While there are resources relevant to a dispute resolution process across different government agencies, they are not consolidated or relevant to small business.

“Often, agencies cannot make specific recommendations, as there is a gap in information for industry which will be rectified through this new commissioner role.

“We see the long-term benefit as supporting the provision of a competitive and fair operating environment, and we look forward to working with the new commissioner to benefit Queensland’s small business community,” Ms Rohan said.