Local businesses need to be armed with the tools required to survive the aftermath of a disaster, or face becoming a statistic like many others before them.

43 per cent of companies hit by disasters never reopen with another 29 per cent failing within two years, according to information provided by Westpac Bank.

On Monday 4 March at 5.45pm, the Port Douglas branch of Westpac is inviting all local businesses, regardless of who they bank with, to their branch on Macrossan Street to share information that could potentially save businesses from going under in the event of a major disruption.

The government funded initiative will allow attendees to access resources to be better prepared next time disaster strikes.

"It's a session about being prepared," said Westpac Port Douglas branch manager, Caroline Ellison.

"The feedback I've had on sessions that have been run in the South East, and they're on the third round of them in Tully, has been around what people wished they'd done in hindsight.

"Having been in the scenario where something has happened, it's what they've learned from that. One of the businesses in Tully talked about how they wished they had all their contact details in one location, numbers for suppliers and customers weren't as accessible at they previously thought they were," she said.

A dozen local businesses have already confirmed their attendance, and with just eight spots left, business owners are being urged to contact Caroline to secure a position for the 90 minute forum.

Caroline can be contacted on 4030 4970 or 0423 772 603.