Douglas Shire small businesses hit hard by the pandemic can get support at a forum in Port Douglas on Wednesday with Member for Cook Cynthia Lui and Minister for Small Business and Employment Di Farmer.

The Douglas Shire Small Business Forum, organised by Ms Lui on behalf of the local business community, is set to provide an opportunity for local businesses to find out more about the range of support the government is putting in place to help them survive the downturn.

“Small business is the engine room of this Shire and I recognise the severe impact the pandemic has had on the local business community,” Ms Lui said.

“The Queensland government is committed to supporting the Douglas Shire small business community via three new grants programs worth $25 million over two years - Business Basics, Business Boost and Business Growth Fund.

“These grants build on the more than $180 million in Small Business COVID-19 Adaption grants which have been paid to more than 20,300 small businesses across the state, including 133 in the Douglas Shire.

“The Forum is an expression of my, and the government’s, commitment to this community and I am looking forward spending time with Douglas Shire businesspeople on Wednesday so I can better understand their unique challenges.”

The forum will also be attended by Minister Farmer.

“I would like to thank the Member for Cook for organising this event and inviting me to attend,” she said.

“This is a very special part of Australia, and I am hopeful the new grants round will ease what has been an incredibly difficult time for the region’s business community, in particular the hard – hit tourism sector.

“May is Queensland Small Business Month and this is great opportunity to reiterate the Queensland Government’s appreciation for, and dedication to, small business.”

Ms Lui added high numbers of people were intending to attend the event but there was still time for people to register.

“Registrations remain open – if you would like to attend, please ring 07 4223 1100 or email cook@parliament.qld.gov.au.”

Event details:
Date: Wednesday 19 May 2021
Doors open: 9.30 am
Event: 10 – 11 am
Location: The Tin Shed - 7 Ashford Avenue, Port Douglas