The CEO of Business Chamber Queensland, Heidi Cooper, highlighted the importance of understanding the unique challenges faced by businesses across the state at a recent meeting during her visit to the Burdekin.
"We spend a lot of time listening to the Queensland business community because we want to ensure the business environment is the right one for them," she emphasised. This approach involves engaging with regional and North Queensland businesses to advocate for the best possible outcomes.
One of the key issues facing Queensland businesses is workforce management. "Workforce is the number one issue for Queensland businesses, about accessing and retaining the right staff," the CEO stated. She pointed out that businesses are struggling with high wages, energy costs, and insurance expenses. Housing availability also poses a significant challenge, making it difficult for businesses to employ staff without adequate living arrangements.
The Business Chamber Queensland offers various support programs to assist businesses of all sizes across the state. These programs include online services, help desks, and other resources to ensure accessibility regardless of location. A notable initiative is the EcoBiz program, which helps businesses implement sustainable practices. Heidi shared a success story from Cairns, where a tourism operator reduced energy and waste consumption, leading to cost savings and improved sustainability.
The chamber actively engages with regional communities through meetings, conversations, and surveys. "I encourage any regional businesses to get involved in our pulse surveys and election surveys on our website. The more engagement, the better we can advocate," Heidi urged. These surveys help address the specific issues businesses face, with workforce management being a primary concern.
To support workforce diversity and retention, the chamber has launched an initiative called Workforce Evolve. This program assists business owners in diversifying their workforce and provides HR support, particularly beneficial for smaller businesses. "We know that workforce is the biggest issue," Heidi reiterated, emphasising the importance of chamber membership for accessing these resources.
The chamber's core purpose, as an independent, not-for-profit organisation, is to support the Queensland business community. They host events, often in partnership with local chambers, to foster connections and address economic challenges. Despite low confidence levels across the state, Heidi remains optimistic about opportunities in regional Queensland.
"Our election platform focuses on bringing the voice of regional Queensland to state government, advocating for policies and regulations that enable business success," Heidi concluded. They encouraged business owners to join local chambers and the Business Chamber Queensland to benefit from a supportive network, emphasising that thriving businesses contribute to the overall prosperity of the community.
David Jackson President of Home Hill Chamber of Commerce, Heidi Cooper CEO of Business Chamber Queensland and Leigh Kefford President of Burdekin Chamber of Commerce meet at Home Hill Newsagents for a Chamber of Business meeting. Photo credit: Miah Lampard
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