Previewing our revamped advocacy platform
In a move that promises to shape the future of small businesses in the Whitsunday region, the Whitsundays Coast Chamber of Commerce has embarked on an innovative advocacy journey.
To be released in the coming months, the Chamber’s revamped advocacy platform aims to influence decisions and actions across all levels of government on issues of shared concern.
The platform will focus on key regional policy issues such as regional infrastructure investment, future workforce development, red tape simplification, access to finance, business interruption support, digital connectivity and reliability, and community engagement.
These focal points reflect the diverse needs and aspirations of the local business community, ensuring a comprehensive and inclusive approach to advocacy.
Appointment to the Commissioner’s Regional Small Business Roundtable
In solidifying our presence and influence on significant policy matters, we are delighted to confirm the Chamber’s appointment to the inaugural Queensland Small Business Commissioner’s Regional Small Business Roundtable.
This forum brings together a select number of stakeholders to raise awareness and enable discussions about regional small business issues and identify actions to help enhance the operating environment for small businesses in Queensland.
As the backbone of the region’s community and its economic stability, small businesses play an indispensable role in supporting major industries such as tourism, mining, and agriculture.
Recognising the vital importance of our region’s small business sector, the Chamber has strategically positioned itself to ensure that the voice of local businesses is not only heard – by contributing substantial insights and high-value information – but also actively engaged in policy and legislative discussions that shape change.
Introducing our new Policy Officer
The Chamber’s strategic shift towards robust advocacy is underpinned by the appointment of their new Policy Officer, Richard Evans, a nationally recognised industry leader and former Federal Politician.
Richard brings a wealth of experience and influence to the role.
As a former Executive Director of the Australian Retailers Association, the Franchise Council of Australia, and the Australian Fashion Council, Richard is well-versed in advocating for small business needs on state and national levels. His proven track record of driving positive change and his familiarity with policy intricacies make him an invaluable asset in spearheading the Chamber’s new advocacy direction.
Richard will be representing the Chamber on the Regional Small Business Roundtable and in other advisory forums.
“The Chamber’s new advocacy direction signals a profound commitment by the Board to the growth and prosperity of the small business sector within the region,” states Richard.
“I am thankful to support the Chamber’s efforts in advocating for the needs and aspirations of our hardworking, awesome local businesses at both state and national levels.”
Our fresh advocacy approach, appointments and invitations to key forums, and the appointment of a Policy Officer ushers in a new era of collaboration and influence, ensuring the region’s businesses have a powerful voice at policy-making tables.
The Chamber’s President, Allan Milostic, stated, “This is a pivotal moment for our Chamber and for every small business in the Whitsunday region.
Our new advocacy direction, led by Richard Evans, along with our involvement in the Queensland Small Business Commissioner’s Regional Small Business Roundtable initiative marks a significant step forward in ensuring that the concerns, aspirations, and needs of our local businesses are not only heard but acted upon.
We encourage all businesses to stand with us and join the Chamber as we embark on this transformative journey together.”
Joining the Whitsundays Coast Chamber of Commerce not only adds weight to the collective voice of small businesses but also reinforces the region’s commitment to fostering economic growth and resilience.
Our local businesses invest in our community