Many Queensland businesses don’t need to experience a flood, cyclone or severe storm first-hand to feel the effects.

Sometimes the disruption happens somewhere else. A supplier can’t access their premises. A freight route is cut off. A manufacturer loses power. For many businesses, these knock-on effects are where the real impact is felt.

Who does your business rely on?

Ask yourself: Which suppliers are critical to keeping your business running? How long could you operate without them? Are there alternative suppliers available? Would you know who to call if your usual supplier couldn’t deliver?

You don’t need all the answers straight away. The exercise can help identify risks that aren’t always obvious when business is operating as usual. When conditions are changing quickly, understanding those connections can help you prioritise decisions and identify alternatives sooner.

Look beyond your immediate suppliers

Your supplier may not be directly affected by a disaster but could still experience delays because one of their suppliers, contractors or freight providers has been disrupted.

You don’t need to map every step in the process. But it can help to understand where important products come from, how they reach you and whether there are other options available.

Start the conversation now

One of the simplest ways to prepare is to talk with key suppliers before disruption occurs. Ask about their backup plans. Understand how they communicate during disruptions.

Consider diversifying or identifying alternative suppliers

If your business relies heavily on a single supplier for an important product or service, consider whether that creates unnecessary risk.

It can also be helpful to identify alternative suppliers before they’re needed. You may never need them, but it’s easier to have those conversations before a disruption occurs.