Redland City Council has signed targeted funding agreements with three local chambers of commerce.
Mayor Jos Mitchell said Council was proud to continue its support for Redlands Coast Chamber of Commerce, Straddie Chamber of Commerce and the Southern Moreton Bay Islands Chamber of Commerce, in the work they do to strengthen business communities across Redlands Coast.
The funding agreements for the 2025–2026 financial year set out deliverables that support a partnership approach to business development between Council and the chambers, including delivering business events, disaster resilience, and the Redlands Coast Business Excellence Awards.
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“These chambers empower and advocate for their area’s business operators and in doing so create vibrant and well patronised shopping and business areas,” the Mayor said.
“Redlands Coast is an attractive place to live, work and do business, and Council believes that local business hubs are vital to a strong local economy.
“We are a city built on the exceptional and unique qualities of our small businesses.
“They employ local people, attract investment to the area, and supply the goods and services our community needs.
“It is incumbent on Council to assist in creating an environment where local small businesses can thrive.”
The Mayor said that under Council’s agreement with Redlands Coast Chamber of Commerce, a significant amount of funding would be directed to the delivery of the Redlands Coast Business Excellence Awards.
“These awards provide recognition for outstanding local traders, while putting them up as examples of the excellence that can be achieved,” she said.
Of the more than 12,800 registered businesses on Redlands Coast, 97.9 per cent of these are small businesses.
More than half are non-employing sole traders, and about 41 per cent are micro or small businesses employing less than 20 staff.
Economic Development Portfolio Representative Councillor Peter Mitchell said Council’s support for local businesses and chambers of commerce, went well beyond the funding.
“This agreement with the chambers is part of an ongoing commitment to building a stronger local economy and enhancing the Redlands Coast business sector,” he said.
“We recently extended our participation in the Queensland Small Business Friendly program; and last year launched the Redlands Coast Local Retail and Activation Toolkit.
“Council regularly organises business workshops and networking events that aim to support businesses to strengthen their capability.
“We also foster partnerships and collaboration with other government agencies, businesses, and community organisations to promote services and resources available to businesses.”
