Business Matters Issue Five

Start your day right with an information packed breakfast event featuring our very own Jobs Fraser Coast team. Join us as we reveal the game-changing work that Jobs Fraser Coast regional jobs committee is delivering for our region, and learn their strategies for unlocking a pool of top talent for your business needs in the thriving Fraser Coast region now and into the future.

VIP Members

Don’t miss this opportunity to supercharge your recruitment strategy, connect with other skilled business people, and support the next generation of talent. Secure your spot now and let’s talk about shaping the future together!

Member Price $25.00

Non-Member Price $50.00

Wednesday 29th May | 6.15 am – 8.00 am The Club House Hervey Bay

Registrations are to be completed online before 5 pm – Monday 27th May

PLEASE NOTE NO DOOR SALES

You can book your tickets now. Limited seats are available and ticketing will close when full.

To book click here

Training opportunities in Hervey

Bay - delivered by the Queensland Human Rights Commission

The Queensland Human Rights Commission has a duty to ensure people and organisations understand their rights and obligations relating to discrimination and sexual harassment in Queensland.

There have been recent changes to legislation enforcing a Positive Duty on Employers to eliminate workplace sexual harassment.

Our expert training will provide the information and tools to help protect your organisation from the damaging costs of discrimination and sexual harassment complaints and claims.

We can provide your organisation with the skills to:-

• comply with legislation to prevent discrimination and harassment in the workplace.

• Reduce the risk to your organisation of being held liable for the actions of employees (Vicarious liability defence).

• Reduce the risk of lengthy and costly litigation.

Increase productivity through:

• retention of staff.

• reduced absenteeism.

• improved staff morale.

• enhancing your reputation as an employer of choice.

• increased job satisfaction.

• reduced downtime managing complaints/litigation.

• contributing to creating fair and productive workplaces.

Our training can be delivered in multiple modes:

• On site or at a location of your choice, Via Zoom or Teams,

• We can also embed our packages online into your own learning portal.

Download the Training Services Guide here which includes brief descriptions of all our training modules, terms, and conditions of training delivery.

You can also access much of this information at training on our webpage.

We can also tailor our training products to suit the needs of your organisation, and small businesses with only a few staff can also work with other organisations to share the cost.

For organisations where it is required, I also have a Blue Card.

For further information.

Joanne Keevers, Assistant Human Rights Officer

Queensland Human Rights Commission p 07 4933 5119

Level 1, 209 Bolsover Street, Rockhampton 4700 https://www.qhrc.qld.gov.au

Workers’ Compensation Scheme reforms

This month the Workers’ Compensation and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2024 (WC Bill) was introduced to Parliament.

The WC Bill seeks to amend three existing pieces of Queensland legislation, being the:

• Industrial Relations Act 2016;

• Labour Hire Licensing Act 2016;

• Workers’ Compensation and Rehabilitation Act 2003; and the Workers’ Compensation and Rehabilitation Regulation 2014.

The WC seeks to introduce a number of changes to Queensland’s workers’ compensation scheme, including:

• Requiring employers to provide workers with a statement of rights on a regular basis;

• Expanding the definition of worker for the purpose of the scheme to potentially include gig workers (in line with changes to the Fair Work Act 2009 (Cth);

• Expanding the scope of the types of cancers that will be accepted as being work-related for Queensland’s firefighters;

• Introducing improvements with early intervention and support to workers minimise secondary psychological and psychiatric injuries risks;

• Provide workers with the ability to actively participate in the rehabilitation process and being able to choose their own rehabilitation provider and treating doctor/s.

The WC Bill follows a 2023 independent review of the scheme by former QIRC Commissioner Glenys Fisher, and Griffith University Emeritus Professor David Peetz.

Paid parental leave changes from July 1

The Paid Parental Leave Amendment (More Support for Working Families) Act 2024 (PPLA Act) received Royal Assent on 20 March and provides from 1 July 2024, the Paid Parental Leave entitlement increases by another two weeks.

This entitlement includes both Paid Parental Leave and Dad and Partner Pay as a combined entitlement, and the above increased entitlement applies to babies born or adopted after 1 July 2023.

From 1 July 2024 (where the date of birth or adoption date falls on or after), the entitlement will be 22 weeks or 110 days.

The PPLA Act will also see the entitlement increase again on 1 July 2025 to 120 days, and on 1 July 2026 to 130 days.

More information about Paid Parental Leave can be found on the Services Australia website here.

Women’s Leadership Scholarships

Women & Leadership Australia has announced new scholarships to enable more women to access world class leadership and workplace skill development programs.

By combining cutting edge leadership theory with practical application, and a flexible part-time delivery, Women & Leadership Australia offers an unparalleled learning experience designed to fit into your busy schedule.

With partial scholarships ranging from $1,000 to $5,000, there are four programs to suit women in non leadership roles all the way up to senior executives.

Applications close Friday 14 June 2024 unless allocated prior.

Find out more here: https://www.wla.edu.au/industry/register/ Apply by 14 June 2024

Unlock A New Segment of Jobseekers with Workforce Evolve

Workforce Evolve is a free program designed to assist employers attract and retain a wider range of employees particularly from societal groups who struggle to gain employment through traditional recruitment and attraction practices.

Register and get free access to:

• Six flexible online learning modules

• Library of free downloadable resources

• Free coaching to put it all into practice

• Connect with expert Referral Partners to enhance your diversity and inclusion

Become Workforce Evolve Verified by completing all 6 modules and use your Verification badge to demonstrate your commitment to diversity, inclusion, and sustainable employment practices.

Not sure if Workforce Evolve is for you? Book a complimentary chat with a Coach.

This Workforce Connect Fund project is proudly funded by the Queensland Government and free to all employers in Queensland.

Register Here

High interest rates squeezing farm finances

Compared with two years ago, interest rates are 2.4 times higher for Southern Queensland’s primary producers.

For every $1 million borrowed, that’s about $3,000 a month extra in interest payments, or $36,000 a year hit to your bottom line.

How is your farm business managing the higher interest costs?

Explore your financial optons with the Rural Financial Counselling Service (RFCS) Southern Queensland. Get free and confidential planning support to help you stay in control of your farm business finances.

For more information visit the RFCS Southern Queensland website www.rfcssq.org.au/options

Queensland Small Business Commissioner Update

We often hear from small businesses that industry experience matters greatly, and every business faces unique challenges at different times. That’s why we’ve been busy connecting with industry bodies at key events like the Australian Small Business Enterprise and Family Ombudsman’s ESG symposium in Canberra and the Council of Small Business Organisations Australia’s summit for 2024.

No matter the industry, small businesses across Queensland continue to voice concerns with us about rising electricity costs and insurance premiums, difficulty accessing a skilled workforce and challenges related to workplace security and crime prevention. Rest assured we’re actively collaborating with organisations like the Insurance Council of Australia and the Energy and Water Ombudsman and the other small business commissioners nationally to ensure Queensland small business voices are heard at all levels of government.

We’re especially focused on amplifying the voices of our regional, remote, and rural small businesses. In late April, we were thrilled to welcome Longreach Regional Council to the Small Business Friendly family, and we were heartened by the positive reception from small businesses we met along the way in Longreach, Isisford and Ilfracomb. Despite being impacted by rising flood waters, small businesses in these areas were upbeat and eager to work closely with their council for better outcomes for their local government area.

A big congratulations to our Assistance team for winning the National Winner for the Alternative Dispute Resolution Awards – Commissions and Ombudsman category. This accolade recognises their outstanding work, alongside a panel of 17 expert

The Big Yellowbelly greets you on your arrival to Isisford. Measuring 12 metres long and standing five metres high, it is a celebration of the region’s favourite annual fishing competition – held the last weekend of July. Book your tickets now!

mediators, helping small business resolve disputes efficiently. They’ve also been busy creating informative fact sheets on common dispute topics and practical tips – take a look!

As we celebrate Queensland Small Business Month (QSBM) this May, we’re excited to be visiting locations across the state where small businesses can join us for education sessions, celebrations, and collaborative opportunities.

Explore the 73 free events happening during QSBM – you don’t want to miss out! To check out the events click here

Photo:

May is Queensland Small Business Month

A time dedicated to recognising and celebrating the contributions of small business to our local economies and communities.

Queensland’s small businesses embody innovation, resilience, and creativity. They are the corner cafes where we gather, the stores that showcase local talent, the services that make our lives easier, and the online platforms connecting us, and so much more. Behind each of these enterprises are passionate individuals and teams who work tirelessly to bring their dreams to life and contribute to the richness of our society.

This month, please take time to celebrate and support small businesses in your local community. Whether you’re a customer, a fellow small business owner, or a supporter of local initiatives, there are countless ways to get involved. Consider shopping locally, spreading the word about your favourite small businesses, or attending events hosted by your local council, business chambers and tourism groups or industry associations.

Ban on the use of engineered stone

The ban on the use of engineered stone will come into effect on 1 July 2024. Ahead of this date, workers and businesses in Queensland can continue to work with engineered stone in a controlled way.

Previously installed engineered stone will not need to be removed. Repairs, minor modification, removal, and disposal of previously installed engineered stone products, will not be banned. However, effective dust controls will be required for any work with installed engineered stone. You can find information on the ban and resources on the Safe Work Australia website. Click here.

Before, during & after parental leave

Whether it’s the first time you’re supporting a working parent in the workplace or a working parent yourself, there can be a lot to wrap your head around. The Fair Work Ombudsman have compiled some key questions and answers about parental leave that apply before, during and after parental leave. Click here to read more.

Is your Business Covered for Music Use?

Whether you play music via a digital music service in your small business, or host live performers, a music licence or permission is required under the Copyright Act.

Subscribing to a streaming service is not the same as having a music licence. These services provide the music, but not the licence to play to the public. The streaming services most of us use every day is for our personal use only. Take Spotify, for example, this is stated in their terms and conditions.

If you are playing music to your customers, music creators need to be paid public performance royalties. OneMusic collects licence fees which form royalty income that is paid out directly to music creators. OneMusic issues licenses to play most songs heard on radio, TV, music-streaming services from around the world. For more information, visit OneMusic online.

Flood Insurance inquiry

An inquiry is underway into insurers’ responses to claims made following the 2022 major floods that impacted South-East Queensland in February and March 2022.

You have until 31 July 2024, to make a submission, and/or complete the online survey.

To make a submission click here

Having already heard from regulators, insurance companies, consumer advocacy, and legal rights groups, the committee wants to hear from locals in some of the worst-hit regions.

The committee would like to hear about any of the following issues:

• the experiences of policyholders before, during, and after making claims.

• timeframes for resolving claims and any obstacles.

• insurers’ communication with policyholders.

• accessibility and affordability of hydrology reports and other expert assessments.

• affordability of insurance premiums.

• claimants’ experiences of insurers’ dispute resolution processes.

For more information about the inquiry and to have your voice heard visit the House Standing Committee on Economics website click here.

QSBC Insurance case studies

We know that insurance affordability and availability is one of the top issues for small businesses across Queensland. While our office can’t single-handedly solve these complex issues, we can and do contribute to broader advocacy efforts to help improve the insurance landscape for small businesses.

We are currently interviewing a range of businesses to develop case studies which highlight the lived experiences of small businesses in regards to insurance. These case studies are invaluable as they help inform our advocacy work to the Insurance Council of Australia, the National Small Business Commissioners Group, and government at all levels—ensuring that the voices of Queensland small businesses are amplified. We will keep you updated about our advocacy efforts in this space over the coming months.

Chasing unpaid invoices in three steps

Each day our Assistance team fields multiple calls from small businesses that haven’t been paid for work completed from customers or other businesses. If reminding them to pay doesn’t work consider writing them a letter of demand, giving them a reasonable deadline to pay, and mentioning your intention to take legal action if needed. Here is a Letter of Demand template and further information.

Second, you can apply to QCAT (for a minor debt dispute) or a court to try and recover the debt. Legal Aid has written a stepby-step guide to making a minor debt dispute claim in QCAT.

Third, review your practices. Unpaid debts can be a significant

risk to small businesses. Try to reduce your risk and consider preparing contracts that include a:

• Retention of title clause where goods are involved.

• Term about how disputes will be resolved (including mediation).

• Deposit, milestone payments, or holding funds in trust for future payments.

• Requirement for full payment before products are released.

You should obtain legal advice for your specific circumstances. You can also read more about the options in our Payment Issues fact sheet.

Update on Torbanlea Train Manufacturing

Torbanlea works notice: May 2024

Construction works for the Queensland Train Manufacturing Program (QTMP) Torbanlea train manufacturing facility will continue throughout May.

Works will involve:

• Continuing site clearing, where required.

• Construction of site drainage, sediment controls and haul roads.

• Finalising works on the Bruce Highway site access, which is scheduled to open in July. The Bruce Highway access will be used by heavy vehicles entering and exiting site. Light vehicles will continue to access the site via Ritchie Road.

• Continuing bulk earthworks, ground improvement works and removal of excess fill materials from site. Excess fill material will be transported to waste facilities in Granville and Howard. There will be an increase in heavy vehicles travelling via approved heavy vehicle routes to these areas.

• Delivering additional demountable shelters to site. Deliver-

ies will arrive to site via Ritchie Road during normal construction hours.

• Pouring concrete to install the facility foundation.

• Delivering oversized equipment to site at night via Ritchie Road. These works are weather permitting.

Susan River workforce accommodation village

The construction of the Susan River workforce accommodation village was recently completed,and workers have begun moving in. There will be an increase in light vehicles moving between the village and the Torbanlea train manufacturing facility site.

What to expect

While concrete pours are underway, there may be times when works

exceed standard work hours. We will ensure that works are completed during work hours, where possible.

Oversized equipment will be delivered to the site outside of peak times to minimise traffic impacts. These deliveries will be scheduled between 1am and 5am. Fauna surveys will occur at night throughout May 2024. Noise will be minimal, and surveyors will leave site by 10pm each night.

During the work, you may experience construction noise, low levels of vibration and dust. We are committed to minimising these impacts where possible.

The train manufacturing facility site is monitored by security 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

they come into service on the South East Queensland network

• a dedicated children’s area for younger visitors

The Queensland Train Manufacturing Program (QTMP) has officially opened its Project Information Centre in the heart of Maryborough.

The Centre is conveniently located at 229 Adelaide Street, providing easy accessibility. Visitors to the centre will be able to learn more about the program which will build 65 six-car passenger trains at a purpose-built train manufacturing facility in Torbanlea and a new rail facility at Ormeau, on the Gold Coast.

The Centre has something for the whole family, featuring:

• rare archival photos and information about the extensive history of rail on the Fraser Coast

• details about the construction currently underway to build the new QTMP facilities

• a sneak peek at what the new QTMP trains will look like when

• a specially designed digital train game to entertain and educate the train designers of the future

• stories behind the connection with rail of the Butchulla People, the traditional custodians of the land on which the train manufacturing facility will be built.

The QTMP Project Information Centre is open from 10am to 2pm, Monday to Friday, and the first Saturday of the month from 9am to 12pm.

Image: Concept image of the Train manufacturing facility to be built at Torbanlea. Not final design.

Queensland Train Manufacturing Program opens its new Project Information Centre

Open for Application

Community Grants Round 3

Please ensure you check guidelines for eligible project dates.

Round

Opens: 15 April 2024

Closes: 12 May 2024

Total Pool $117,500

Max 1 grant to $15,000

Max 2 grants to $10,000

Remainder of pool available up to $5,000 per grant

Desktop Computer Donations

Opens: 10 July 2023

Closes: 10 July 2024

Will close early if fully expended.

Individual Excellence and Development Grants - Sport and STEAM Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics

Opens: 10 July 2023

Closes: 30 June 2024

Will close early if fully expended.

Total Pool $5,000

Grant amounts $150 to $350

Regional Arts Development Fund

Opened: 11 October 2023

Closes: 12 August 2024

$50,000

Grant limits vary depending on funding category

Community Grants Program

RACQ Foundation Community Grants Program was established to help Queensland communities impacted by natural disasters. In keeping with this objective, we’ve created a new grant category for resilience-based projects. This new category will help Queensland communities build resilience for the future.

With this new category we continue to focus on supporting Communities and grass roots organisations. Eligible groups include sporting clubs, community groups, charities and councils. With up to $50,000 available to individual projects, RACQ Foundation encourages eligible organisations/councils to apply.

FY25 Round 1 – Open from Saturday, 24 February 2024 – Closes at 5pm on Friday, 4 October 2024.

For more information click here

Grants for Small to Medium Manufacturers

Eligible Queensland-based small to medium manufacturers can apply for matched grant funding of between $5,000 and $25,000 to buy equipment or introduce processes that will reduce energy consumption and carbon emissions. Applications for the Manufacturing Energy Efficiency Grant Program close on 30 June 2024 or when funding is fully allocated.

Gambling Community Benefit Fund Round 121

The Gambling Community Benefit Fund (GCBF) is Queensland’s largest one-off community grants program and distributes approximately $60 million each year to not-for-profit community groups. The GCBF funding helps these groups to provide services, leisure activities and opportunities for Queensland communities.

The GCBF will have 3 funding rounds in 2024:

1. Round 120—$35,000 standard grant round—closes 29 February

2. Round 121—$100,000 30th Anniversary super round— closes 30 April

3. Round 122—$35,000 standard grant round—closes 30 November.

To check eligibility requirements and understand your organisation’s responsibilities throughout all stages of the grant funding process visit the website.

Contact the GCBF team on phone 1800 633 619 if you need help.

Business Growth Fund

Aimed at small and medium-sized businesses with high-growth plans to support the purchase of specialised equipment. Grants of $50,000 to $75,000 are available as a co-contribution with eligible businesses. An expression of interest opens 1 May 2024 and closes 14 May 2024.

Queensland Mental Health Week

Eligible organisations can apply for up to $2,000 to hold an event during Queensland Mental Health Week (5-13 October 2024).

The grant program will prioritise innovative events that provide a focal point for awareness, education, and understanding of mental health and wellbeing, help foster community connection, and enhance inclusivity and a sense of belonging for those living with mental health challenges, their families, carers and support people. Applications close on 17 May 2024.

Female Founders Co-Investment Fund

Aimed at innovative female-founded businesses undertaking an early-stage capital raise with new investors.

The fund provides grants from $50,000 to $200,000 matched at a 1:3 ratio and best suited to female founders who understand the responsibilities and legal requirements of equity funding and is open until all funds have been allocated. Click here to find out more.

Business Hervey Bay Networking Events

Only three business sponsors opportunities left for 2024!

Are you wanting to get your business or services in front of local business people?

Being a business sponsors is a great opportunity to speak in front of potenial new clients.

We only have three spots left for our Business Sponsorship for Expresso Networking Events for 2024.

• Speak at the event for five minutes

• promotion of your logo and blurb on all marketing material

• Display pull up banner at event

• Hand out Fliers at event

Cost $200 + $50 lucky door prize.

If you are interested in being a business sponsor at our expresso Networking events please email admin@herveybaychamber.com.au

Please note you need to be a chamber member to be a business sponsor.

Charity of the Month Hervey Bay Animal Refuge

Hervey Bay Animal Rescue, nestled in Nikenbah, embodies the spirit of compassion and dedication towards the welfare of animals in need.

With a team of devoted volunteers, they provide sanctuary, rehabilitation, and rehoming services for a variety of animals, from abandoned cats and dogs to injured wildlife. Their tireless efforts extend beyond mere rescue, encompassing education initiatives and community outreach to promote responsible pet ownership and wildlife conservation.

Through their unwavering commitment, Hervey Bay Animal Rescue at Nikenbah stands as a beacon of hope for both animals and humans alike, fostering a harmonious coexistence between species in the beautiful Fraser Coast region.

Business Hervey Bay Networking Drinks

Thursday 16th May, 2024 at 19XO 5:30pm - 7:30pm

29th May Breakfast Wednesday 29th May 2024 at Club House Hervey Bay 6:15am - 8:00am

Expresso Networking Friday, 7th June 2024 at Sea Breeze Cafe 7am - 8am Book

We have a couple of Business Sponsorships still available for this years expresson networking events. If you are interested in being a Business Sponsor please email admin@herveybaychamber.com.au

Our Events Gallery -1st May Breakfast

Thank you to our Business Sponsor Fraser Coast Hospice

Chamber Chat with Anne-Marie Chapman

We sat down with Anne-Marie to ask her some questions to get to know her better?

How long have you been on the Chamber Committee?

I have been a part of the Chamber Committee for 2 years

What do you like about being involved with the Hervey Bay Chamber of Commerce?

Having lived in the Fraser Coast most of my life, there is no other region I would rather be. I like being involved in the Hervey Bay Chamber of Commerce as it is my way of contributing to the community. The networking and friendships that I have made over the short period has been amazing. The Chamber brings together the broad community to discuss the common issues and brainstorm new ideas.

What is your favourite thing about the Fraser Coast?

I love the tranquility of the Fraser Coast. There is so many hidden gems and lots to discover in our own back yard. We are very fortunate in the area to have both the seaside and beautiful country at our doorstep.

What do you like doing in your spare time?

I love to spend spare time with my family and friends. Any time with my children and grandchildren is precious. When on my own I love reading, cooking and sewing.

What is your favourite motto?

There is always something to be grateful for.

Where is your favourite place you have travelled?

New Zealand – beautiful culture, famous coffee and fine wine, stunning scenery and so many adventures to experience.

If you were stranded on an island what three things would you have with you if you had a choice?

Husband, tent and matches.