Qld election 2024: LNP says its plan would be a game changer for small business

Hervey Bay LNP candidate David Lee and opposition spokesperson for small and family business Brent Mickelberg announced a promise to offer small business owners dedicated courses through the University of the Sunshine Coast if elected next Saturday.

Opposition spokesperson for small and family business Brent Mickelberg visited Hervey Bay this week. Picture: Liam Kidston.

Dedicated courses would be offered through the University of the Sunshine Coast in partnership with the LNP to help small business owners improve their planning and processes, if the LNP wins next Saturday’s state election.

The promise was made in Hervey Bay on Thursday by opposition spokesperson for small and family business Brent Mickelberg and the city’s LNP candidate David Lee.

If elected, the LNP will partner with UniSC to provide micro-credential courses, face-to-face and online, to small business owner-managers.

The $11.5 million investment will be part of the Right Plan for Queensland’s Future.

Mr Mickelberg said on a visit to Hervey Bay this week the commitment would deliver six UniSC micro-credential business courses in priority areas of need.

Opposition spokesperson for small and family business Brent Mickelberg visited Hervey Bay this week. Picture: Liam Kidston.

“The LNP will back our small businesses all the way and give them the skills to be resilient and leverage opportunities for growth,” he said.

“The UniSC courses are co-created and co-evaluated by multiple industry partners, offering tangible support for Queensland’s small and medium businesses.

“This is real support for regional communities and economies. Small businesses are the backbone of each community and only the LNP has the Right Plan for their future.”

Mr Lee said small businesses in his community would benefit from this commitment.

“Business owners like Michael Hayes from Pialba’s GS Engineering have completed the UniSC course, and the proof is in the pudding with the success of his business, “Mr Lee said.

“This funding by the LNP will allow more business owners to learn new skills and they can do that either here on campus in Hervey Bay or online anywhere in Queensland.”

UniSC’s Professor Michael Wilmore said the university welcomed the initiative.

“These courses are delivered in an accessible and practical way, underpinned by relevant content, to help busy business owners and managers ensure their businesses are resilient and ready for growth,” Professor Wilmore said.

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