2024 State Election Business Blueprint: Business community welcomes election commitment to help manage direct impact of crime 

By Emma Clarke

The Queensland business community welcomes an election commitment from the LNP to support businesses to protect their staff and operations from crime and anti-social behaviour. 

The $40m Secure Communities Partnership Program comes directly after Business Chamber Queensland called for financial support for businesses who are experiencing ongoing crime and anti-social behaviour.

“Our 2024 State Election Business Blueprint called for measures to enhance public safety, particularly in high crime areas that impact business operations,” Business Chamber Queensland CEO Heidi Cooper said.

“We specifically called for financial support for businesses who are experiencing ongoing crime and anti-social behaviour so they can manage their business operations.

“We’re really pleased to see this commitment from the LNP, which not only acknowledges the impact of crime on businesses and workforces, but also accepts our recommendation for positive policy reform.”

Ms Cooper also welcomed the LNP’s commitment to work with Chambers of Commerce and local businesses to improve the safety around retail precincts.

“Business knows business best and it is essential the next Queensland government works with industry to get the best outcomes for the businesses and the communities they operate in,” she said.

Ms Cooper said crime and safety was a community issue that had become a barrier to business.

“During our consultations, a business in North Queensland told us increasing crime rates and anti-social behaviour meant they had no choice but to employ security to keep their staff and premises safe,” Ms Cooper said.

“It’s one example of how private businesses are forced to take accountability for societal issues like crime and anti-social behaviour, to protect their operations and ensure their business safety.

“Crime solutions must support community and business needs.”

The Chamber’s 2024 State Election Business Blueprint sets out close to 100 policy recommendations for the next Queensland Government, designed to relieve business from compounding day-to-day pressures, and prepare business to participate in and capitalise on future economic opportunity.

Thousands of businesses across the state participated in the Chamber’s research to form the priorities.

“It is critical policymakers of all parts of government actively reduce constraints and barriers to business and support businesses to participate in future economic activity,” Ms Cooper said.

“The challenge – and opportunity – for the next Queensland Government is to deliver policies and outcomes that stimulate economic growth and enable the private sector.

“The next Queensland government must prioritise the economic development of our state, so businesses can continue to be the lifeblood of our economy and the heart of our communities.”

ENDS

Business Chamber Queensland media contact

Emma Clarke | 0403 944 902 | [email protected]