Finding skilled workers in the construction industry remains one of the biggest challenges for Queensland businesses right now — but a new government program could help ease the pressure while putting money back in your pocket. The Queensland Government has launched TradieStart, a new initiative helping businesses hire construction apprentices and address the state's ongoing skilled worker shortage. The program supports up to 4,500 new construction apprentices across Queensla

Government contracts can be a game-changer for small and medium businesses, and Queensland's procurement framework means there's more opportunity than many local business owners realise. Here's what Mudgeeraba businesses need to know. Queensland Procurement Policy: Opportunities for Local SMEs Queensland's procurement framework presents a significant opportunity for Mudgeeraba businesses. The Queensland Procurement Policy sets a 30% small and medium enterprise participation t

Staying across changes in local government leadership is important for any business operating on the Gold Coast, and there's a significant transition currently underway at City Hall that members should be aware of. Gold Coast Council Leadership Change A period of leadership transition is underway at City Hall. Chief Executive Officer Tim Baker announced on 22 July 2026 that he will not seek renewal of his contract, concluding his tenure with the City of Gold Coast in December

The Mudgeeraba hinterland has long been a source of inspiration for artists, and it's wonderful to see that creative spirit continuing to flourish in our local community. Here's a snapshot of what's happening in Mudgeeraba's arts scene right now. Mudgeeraba's creative scene continues to thrive. Local arts initiatives are actively connecting residents with talented artists, eateries, and small businesses across Mudgeeraba, Springbrook, and beyond. Local artist Karen Collins ha

Government contracts have long been seen as the domain of large corporations, but a recent policy update is changing that picture for businesses right here on the Gold Coast. Queensland Procurement Policy Opens Doors for Local SMEs Queensland's updated procurement framework is creating genuine opportunities for local businesses seeking government work. The Queensland Procurement Policy sets a 30% small and medium enterprise participation target for government contracts, putti

Keeping a finger on the pulse of consumer sentiment is one of the smartest things a local business owner can do — and right now, the picture is one of cautious optimism mixed with real financial pressure. Consumers may be spending more selectively right now, making value and trust more important than ever for local businesses. Inflation continues to weigh on household budgets, with ABS data pointing to ongoing cost pressures across housing, food, and transport. Understanding

Infrastructure milestones don't come around often, and when they do, the ripple effects for local businesses can be significant. The completion of Gold Coast Light Rail Stage 3 is one such moment worth paying close attention to. After more than four years of construction, Gold Coast Light Rail Stage 3 is on the cusp of welcoming its first passengers — a milestone with real significance for businesses along the Gold Coast corridor. The countdown to passenger services is now un

Staying on top of available funding can make a real difference for small businesses looking to grow, invest, or navigate challenges. Here's a snapshot of what Queensland small businesses should know about grant opportunities in 2026. Queensland small businesses have access to several grant opportunities in 2026, with funding ranging from targeted local programs to major project investment. Arts and creative businesses may also be eligible for the Queensland Arts Project Fund.

Staying across local government developments is important for any Gold Coast business owner — and there's plenty happening right now that could have real implications for our region's future. Here's a roundup of the key issues currently unfolding at council level. Council Under Governance Scrutiny Gold Coast City Council is facing significant governance scrutiny, with councillors pushing for an independent review into CEO Tim Baker and his leadership team. Baker has since sou

The Gold Coast continues to cement its place as one of Australia's most dynamic regional economies, but a significant challenge is emerging that local business owners need to understand. A recent analysis highlights both the scale of the city's success and the critical issue that could hold it back. The Gold Coast's remarkable economic growth reflects the region's growing appeal as a destination for business, investment, and talent. Yet a recent Australian Financial Review an

Fire ant biosecurity is a serious and growing concern for businesses across South East Queensland, and a recent enforcement case has brought the stakes into sharp focus for local operators. A recent case serves as a stark warning for businesses handling soil, plant material, or second-hand goods. The significant gap between the fine issued and the cost of the resulting outbreak has prompted calls for significantly tougher penalties as authorities continue working to bring the

The defence manufacturing sector is growing on the Gold Coast, and local businesses stand to benefit from significant government investment in the region. Here's what you need to know about a funding announcement that could open doors for your business. The Queensland Government is investing $285,000 through the $180.6 million Sovereign Industry Development Fund (SIDF) to expand advanced defence manufacturing capability on the Gold Coast — and this signals real opportunity fo

Keeping a pulse on national economic indicators is an essential part of running a savvy local business — and right now, the numbers are telling an important story for traders right here in Mudgeeraba. Australian business confidence is sitting at just 77.5 against a neutral level of 100 — a signal that caution remains widespread. For Mudgeeraba traders, this broader mood matters: when confidence is suppressed nationally, local spending decisions, investment plans, and hiring t

The Queensland 2026-27 State Budget has landed, and for small business owners on the Gold Coast, there are some important changes worth understanding. Here's what's on the radar and how the Mudgeeraba Chamber of Commerce is helping local businesses make sense of it all. Several key changes from the Queensland 2026-27 State Budget deserve your attention. Business Chamber Queensland has described the budget's headline as "certainty in an uncertain world," with small-and-medium-

Staying across local government decisions is essential for Gold Coast business owners and community members alike. Here's a roundup of two local issues currently generating significant debate across our region. Springbrook Cableway Consultation Under Scrutiny Councillor Glenn Tozer has predicted that a majority of Springbrook residents will oppose the council-led cableway project as consultation ramps up on the controversial proposal. Tozer has also criticised the process its

Keeping a finger on the pulse of consumer sentiment is essential for any business owner planning ahead — and the latest data offers some encouraging signals worth noting. More Australians are expecting their finances to be better off in the year ahead, with the four-week moving average climbing 1.8 points to 72.6. Weekly inflation expectations also eased by 0.2 percentage points, adding to a cautiously positive picture as we enter the new financial year. While confidence rema

Major international sporting events don't just fill stadiums — they ripple out across entire regions, and the Gold Coast business community stands to benefit from some exciting news out of Queensland. Queensland has secured a major football coup, with Brazil set to tour for a two-match friendly series against the Socceroos. The tour is tipped to deliver a multimillion-dollar boost to Queensland's visitor economy, with one fixture confirmed for September 25 at Queensland Count

The hospitality sector is facing some of its toughest conditions in recent memory, and the numbers tell a confronting story for business owners across our region. The pressure on our local hospitality industry has reached a critical point. More than 80 food and beverage businesses across South East Queensland have closed in just six months, as rising costs overwhelm even well-regarded operators. Industry insiders paint a sobering picture: venues can have great food, loyal cus

If you've been considering taking on an apprentice but weren't sure about the financial commitment, there's timely support available right now that's worth looking into. Funding Alert: Small Business Apprenticeship Wage Subsidy Now Available Small and family business owners have a valuable opportunity to offset the cost of taking on apprentices. The Small Business Apprenticeship Pilot Program offers eligible businesses a wage subsidy equivalent to 50% of the typical wage for

The Queensland Government has handed down its 2026-27 Budget, and there's plenty for local business owners to pay attention to. Here's a breakdown of what the numbers mean and what to watch as the detail continues to emerge. Queensland Budget 2026-27: What It Means for Local Businesses Queensland's 2026-27 budget commits $29.6 billion in capital investment for the year ahead, with $119.2 billion allocated over four years — signalling major opportunities in construction, infra