Border Bubble Explained

With the new restrictions coming into effect over the weekend this is your guide to how our border works now.

JobKeeper payments extended

Minister for Finance, Mathias Cormann, has ended discussion surrounding the design of the JobKeeper scheme in the wake of Victoria's rise in cases.

Amendments to COVID-Safe Industry Plan & Events Framework

The Queensland Government has made further amendments to the restrictions on businesses and activities relevant to the tourism and events industry.

QLD's Regulatory Support for Commercial Tenants

In response to the Federal Government’s release of a Code of Conduct regulating commercial leases, the Queensland Government has introduced regulations under the COVID-19 Emergency Response Act 2020.

QLD BORDER UPDATE: Closures Announced

Business conditions continue to flatline in Queensland

The results of the recent CCIQ-Suncorp Pulse Survey of Business Conditions are in and its showing COVID-19 is still wreaking havoc across Queensland.

Support for business and workers during the COVID-19

The Department of Employment, Small Business and Training wants to keep you informed of the latest assistance from the Queensland and Australian Governments in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Member Spotlight: Golden Words Proofreading & PR

As the world moves online, Golden Words is your friendly and affordable solution to concise, clear and error free communication.

How trams will change Gold Coast Hwy

With Transport Minister, Mark Bailey, confirming that consultation held in March showed support for the highway route; here is your update on the road ahead...literally.

Insurance challenges: ASBFEO launches an inquiry

Small and family businesses have faced difficulties with their insurance companies, ASBFEO have launched an inquiry to investigate the practices of the insurance industry and consider whether insurance products are fit for purpose.

Currumbin MP offers support to frustrated locals

Currumbin MP, Laura Gerber, is offering some support in these frustrating and confusing times.

JobKeeper: What has changed?

Hundreds of “zombie” businesses have warned the government they will close their doors when the JobKeeper cash runs out. PM warned 1 in 10 businesses won’t survive after support ends.

Surfers stand up for koalas

Koalas are set to dine out on the success of one of the last major gatherings held on the Gold Coast before the Coronavirus pandemic forced the shutdown of the international events industry.

Currumbin Wildlife Hospital Foundation seeks items for upcoming raffle

The Currumbin Wildlife Hospital team are seeking support of businesses to donate a raffle or auction item to be used in an upcoming raffle in September.

Division 14 Councillor Newsletter - August 2020

Read the latest news from Division 14 Councillor Gail O'Neill

Member Spotlight: REM Media

Based on the Gold Coast, the team at REM has been delivering integrated Graphic Design and Print solutions to help clients across Australia grow their brands since 2011.

SWELL Sculpture Festival is ON!

Exciting news! Pop the champagne! Tell your friends! Plan your trip! 11-20 September 2020

What's happening locally this week?

Check out the latest news on all things road works, local council investment and planning. Keep up to date with what happening in the local area and plan ahead for your small business.

UPDATE Covid-19 Restrictions: Businesses, activities and undertakings

New directions has been given to reinstate the restriction for businesses to ensure all dining and drinking is for seated patrons, and provide clarity for event organisers.

Latest on the Light Rail

Southern Gold Coast business owners are aghast at Mayor Tom Tate’s push for light rail to sidestep Palm Beach and its “whingers”, fearing they will miss a huge commercial bump.

Public vs. Private

Understanding the role your private (company) policy plays in conjunction with public (legal) policy.

Member Spotlight: Shine Lawyers (Robina)

Started in 1976 in Toowoomba, Queensland, this Australian owned company continues to go above and beyond in the pursuit of justice.

Gold Coast Airport: welcomes returning services

Queensland Airports Limited CEO Chris Mills has welcomed the return of the Gold Coast-Adelaide service, which will help to restart part of our visitor economy

Single-use plastic straws, plates to be banned

Single-use plastic such as straws and plates will be banned under new legislation tabled in Queensland Parliament.

Gold Coasters brace for ‘disaster’ once JobKeeper payments stop in September

Travel agents, aviation staff and the “working poor’’ are among the thousands of Gold Coasters bracing for “disaster” once JobKeeper payments stop in September.

Tafe Queensland: Latest Online Courses and Webinars

The following courses and webinars are offered by a number of government and industry bodies. Eligibility requirements may apply.

SGC President, Hilary Jacobs, calls for consideration on border

Chamber President, Hilary Jacobs, has backed Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate's suggestion to move the border checkpoint south to Banora Point.

CLOSING SOON: City of Gold Coast Community Organisation Hardship and Recovery Grant Program

Don't miss this opportunity: close on 31 July 2020.

Member Spotlight: 2020 Business Consulting

At 2020 Business Consulting; Small and Medium Business Owners can achieve their personal and business goals through coaching and consulting with a focus on delivering tangible results.

Member Spotlight: Mango Kar Dynamix

Peter Blades is very proud of what Mango Kar Dynamix is accomplishing and knows the importance of delivering a premium and quality Gold Coast Car Cleaning service.

Queensland Government ends talks over a global tourism hub in the city

THE State Government has killed off talk of a global tourism hub on the Gold Coast – and will not sign off on a monopoly deal with The Star for its Broadbeach casino-resort.

Welcome back, interstate friends!

Queensland’s borders have officially reopened to all states except Victoria, The Gold Coast Airport will reopen on Friday 10th of July and Mayor Tom Tate calls for Coolangatta border to be moved south to Tweed.

Energy efficiency grants for small businesses

The Morrison Government is delivering on its commitment to help small businesses lower their power bills and play their part in reducing Australia’s emissions.

5 things you are getting wrong with the latest COVID-19 restrictions

Is your business doing the right thing? After a Gold Coast business was fined an eye-watering amount for allegedly failing to comply with COVID-19 rules, see how you can do the right thing.

Upcoming roadworks which may affect your business

Here is your running guide on major road, path and parking upgrades near your business.

CCIQ Pulse Survey now open

The CCIQ-Suncorp Gold Coast Chamber of Commerce Pulse survey is now open and we need YOUR voice.

The Road to Recovery Series: Events - Episode 5

Join host, Zac Revere with Connecting Southern Gold Coast CEO, Josh Martin, as the two discuss the role of the events industry in capturing the identity of our community while supporting local business.

Member Spotlight: Robbins Watson Solicitors

Established in 1958, Robbins Watson Solicitors is a mid-sized, well respected, multi-discipline Gold Coast law firm which has maintained a team of solicitors providing expert legal advice and practical help to clients for over 60 years.

Member Spotlight: McLaughlins Lawyers

Founded in 1958 by Frank McLaughlin, the firm’s history is dotted with milestone decisions that helped shape the development of its home city, the Gold Coast.

Member Spotlight: Wilson Haynes Law

Starting in 1983, this Tweed Heads firm is focused on delivering the best outcomes, efficiently and affordably.

New portal for Queensland job hunters

The Queensland Government recently launched the Jobs Finder Queensland portal.

Keeping Qld front of mind in Japan

See how Qantas and a Japanese musician's 2019 partnership is keeping our state connected internationally in 2020.

Queensland's events are Good to Go

Queensland’s Chief Health Officer has approved an Industry Framework for COVID Safe Events. All event organisers need to familiarise themselves with the approved Industry Framework.

Queensland Small Business Commissioner report

Maree Adshead unpacks the first months activities for the Office of the Queensland Small Business Commissioner and provides key tips for small business, including financial counselling, negotiating leases and securing agreements.

UPDATE: Small Business COVID-19 Adaption Grant

The funding round for South East Queensland remains open. Please continue to submit your application.

90 Second Update with Hon Karen Andrews MP

Read the latest news in brief from Minister for Industry, Science and Technology & Federal Member for McPherson: Hon Karen Andrews MP

COVID-19 Small Business Hub

Safe Work Australia has created a new COVID-19 work health and safety information hub for small businesses.

Division 14 Councillor Newsletter - July 2020

Read the latest news from Division 14 Councillor Gail O'Neill

COVID-19 restrictions easing

Queensland’s Roadmap to Easing COVID-19 restrictions outlines a staged approach to giving Queenslanders more freedom to travel, participate in more activities and hold more gatherings.

The Road to Recovery Series: 2020/21 City Budget - Episode 4

Cr Gail O'Neill (Councillor for Division 14 of the City of Gold Coast) talks with Zac as the they discuss the recently adopted city budget.

The Road to Recovery Series: Hospitality - Episode 3

Join host Zac Revere and guest Steve Edgar, GM of the Surf Club Coolangatta, as they discuss the importance of a traditional Australian staple (such as the local surf club) being able to adapt and embrace the challenge of COVID-19.

Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary re-opens after 3 month closure

The Sanctuary was forced to close due to the COVID-19 restrictions, however the iconic Sanctuary has now re-opened it's doors in time for the school holidays.

Southern Gold Coast says farewell to tourism and events body

Following the council resolution from 2018, our council-owned entity of Connecting Southern Gold Coast will be wound up from 30 June, 2020, so it's time to say goodbye to the team based in Coolangatta.

Member Spotlight: Focus Plus Service Auditors

Focus Plus Service Auditors have been helping businesses implement change and improve their customer service standard since 2005.

Member Spotlight: Crowley Calvert & Holmes Pty Ltd

This Palm Beach business is busier than ever, supporting their clients as they navigate their way through unprecedented levels of uncertainty and a minefield of financial support.

Changes to Queensland workers compensation laws

Last year there were some changes to the Queensland workers compensation system because of amendments to the Workers Compensation and Rehabilitation Act 2003 (Qld). A second raft of changes, many of which could affect your business, will come into force next week on 1 July 2020.

COVID-Safe Industry Plan vs COVID CLEAN

There has been some confusion around the COVID-Safe Industry Plan and the COVID-CLEAN Practicing Business Program.

See the below for a break down on these two topics.

The Road to Recovery Series: 2020/21 City Budget Update - Episode 4

The Road to Recovery with the 2020/21 GCCC budget update with Cr Gail O'Neill, Councillor for Division 14 of the City of Gold Coast.

#SupportTheSouth

As restrictions begin to ease, it's never been more important to keep our small business community in business.

National Minimum Wage and Modern Award wages increase decision

National Minimum Wage and Modern Award wages increase by 1.75%: Fair Work Commission decision issued 19 June.

Supporting Business - Training Opportunities with TAFE Queensland

Recently another wave of free or low cost training opportunities have become available to individuals and businesses as part of the Government response to COVID-19.

COVID-19 Community Organisation Hardship Grants

The City of Gold Coast is providing $500,000 in funding to support community organisations in their endeavours to respond and recover from the impacts of COVID-19.

The Road to Recovery Series: Tourism - Episode 2

Join host Zac Revere and guest Michael Kelly, GM of Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, to explore the lead up to the COVID-19 crisis and what is need for the tourism industry to recover.

The Road to Recovery Series: The Gateway - Episode 1

In this episode, join host Zac Revere with Southern Gold Coast Chamber of Commerce President, Hilary Jacobs, as they address the broader context of the road ahead for the southern Gold Coast Business Community.

Member Spotlight: Kirra Beach Hotel - The best seat in the house

With sweeping views of the Gold Coast, located directly across from world renowned surf break, Kirra Beach, you will have to agree that Kirra Beach Hotel has the best seat in the house.

Member Spotlight: Southern Cross University - Upskilling for the future

See how Southern Cross University can help you regain control over your businesses future, enrol in a short course this July.

Ready, set, apply: another $100 million for small business recovery grants

Last time these Grants ran out in less than 5 days, so get in quick if you want to apply, there are only 10,000 grants so less than 3% of QLD SME's will be lucky!

GREAT NEWS! 🎉 More of our theme parks are reopening.

As restrictions ease and businesses embrace their COVID-Safe plans, our biggest tourism operators are beginning to re-open their doors. See which operators and when below.

Crowley Calvert & Holmes: Tax Time is Coming

Crowley Calvert & Holmes are offering this tax-saving strategy prior to 1 July 2020.

ShopLocal: A new way to support a local retailer

Introducing Shop Local: an online marketplace being created to address the challenges small retail businesses in local communities face.

Division 14 Councillor Newsletter - June 2020

Read the latest news from Division 14 Councillor Gail O'Neill

The Realestate Dancer: COVID-19 has changed the industry

In many ways, COVID-19 has changed the way in which the real estate industry conducts its business ... but that question lies ... will it be 'forever'?

Currumbin RSL: Reopening

The Currumbin RSL has officially reopened its doors. Their first guests were lucky enough to experience the newly renovated bar and dining areas.

Queensland Government Investing into Tourism

$5 million to 15 Queensland airports to secure new domestic flights & $11 million to support Gold Coast tourism icons to continue to pay workers through the COVID-19 pandemic. See more here.

Cucina Vivo and Kiyomi restaurants reopening after coronavirus shutdown

Restaurants at a major Gold Coast venue are opening again after being forced to close due to coronavirus restrictions.

Queensland Border Update: Tom Tate calls for re-opening

Gold Coast businesses still waiting on border relief and Mayor Tom Tate has joined them

Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary: Re-Openning

After the longest extended closure in its 72-year history, Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary will be reopening its doors to the public and is excited to welcome you back.

‘Local As Qld’ tourism initiative: how you can benefit

A central campaign will flow into over 30 local chambers spread across the state, empowering each area to represent and speak on behalf of their local & small businesses, unveiling the hidden gems that seldom few ever find.

BlueOcean Web Hosting: supporting you in a digital world

A fully online business offering micro, small and medium sized businesses the opportunity of a secure and simple online presence. They Speak your language and keep your business online.

Streamline For Success: Offers this advice for you

Running an efficient operation is more pressing now than ever before. At Streamline For Success, we partner with small businesses to help them automate, scale and grow.

NEW Small Business Commissioner: Maree Adshead

Queensland’s Small Business Champion, Maree Adshead has been announced as the Queensland Small Business Commissioner, to help small business recover from the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Tourism operators unite in protest against border closure

Frustrated owners and workers from the Gold Coast tourism industry have staged a noisy protest against Queensland’s ongoing border closure.

Crowley Calvert & Holmes Pty Ltd: Getting EOFY ready

Gold Member, Crowley Calvert & Holmes Pty Ltd, advice for the coming EOFY.

There’s still time to nominate for the 2020 Queensland Training Awards

Nominate Today!

Submissions have now been extended until the end of the month.

NEW Industry specific advice

Check out your Southern Gold Coast, industry-specific, latest public health direction.

2020 Tax Appeal: Currumbin Wildlife Hospital

The Currumbin Wildlife Hospital Foundation is calling for your support in their 2020 Tax Appeal.

Road to Recovery Southern Gold Coast Mini-Series

As we all start moving into the Post-COVID 19 recovery phase the Southern Gold Coast Chamber of Commerce will be leading the discussion about how recovery and growth can be achieved.

Southside Legal Gold Coast Lawyers: Soldiers Onward

Not burdened by big firm bureaucracy, Southside Legal is able to swiftly put into process the necessary action to achieve results. Down to earth advice is always provided as soon as possible.

Rydges Gold Coast Airport: COVID-19 won't stop this $50 million investment

Opening in 2020, the four-star hotel touts 192 rooms, sweeping views over Kirra beach and a few more surprises to come. Rydges Gold Coast is prepared to surprise once COVID-19 restrictions ease.

Updated roadmap for easing Queensland's restrictions

The roadmap to easing Queensland's restrictions has now been updated to reflect Stage Two commencing from Monday, 1 June 2020.

Tourism can start the road to recovery

The tourism industry has welcomed the weekend's announcements by Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk about the next stage of eased COVID-19 restrictions for the state.

Small Business Grant: CLOSED

Did you miss out? You're not alone. SGC Chamber President Hilary Jacobs stands up for small business and explains the $100 million scheme was simply not enough.

Tourism Restart Taskforce

To help guide a more certain timetable for tourism restart, and with input from the ACCI Tourism Policy Committee, the Tourism Restart Taskforce has proposed a timetable for tourism restart.

Support for business and workers: latest updates for businesses impacted by COVID-19

The Department of Employment, Small Business and Training wants to keep you informed of the latest assistance from the Queensland and Australian Governments in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Iconic Sanctuary Markets to open on the first friday of winter

On Friday 5th June, Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary welcomes back the locals with the return of the iconic Sanctuary markets.

Time to rethink with Southern Cross University

There's never been a better time to reset with a flexible Southern Cross University degree.

St. Helens Bar & Kitchen: Almost ready to welcome you back

While Chef Jess tinkers with the menu and Front of House Manager Brendan sets the tables, locals wait patiently for a chance to get back into everyone's favourite bar & grill.

SGC President takes a stand on QLD border

As the call to open Queensland’s borders amplifies, the Chamber of Commerce and Industry Queensland (CCIQ) and SGC President Hilary Jacobs calls to open travel to support local businesses.

Gold Coast March PULSE Survey results are in and it’s not pretty

The latest Suncorp Pulse Survey for the March Quarter shows that business confidence and conditions for Queensland and on the Gold Coast are now at their lowest levels ever recorded with the worst not yet being realised.

Compliance made easy

If you are looking to re-open your doors, here is a simple break down of what's required to be compliant with all Queensland Government regulations.

NEW Small Business COVID-19 Grant

The Palaszczuk Queensland Government has announced $100 million in grants and training.

Adapting to improve your deliveries through COVID-19

Australia Post is working hard to move more parcels for you and your customers during these challenging times. We’re currently processing over 2 million parcels every day which is even than our busiest period at Christmas.

The road to recovery with Mylestones Employment

Employers are now on the front lines of the recovery phase, here is how you can help with rising unemployment.

Three Southern Gold Coast businesses team up to spread the word to trade

Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary together with Southern Gold Coast partners, Tropical Fruit World and Jellurgal Aboriginal and Cultural Centre have put together a Southern Gold Coast shout out to tourism industry trade to let them know that even though you can’t travel right now, that they are all still thinking of them.

How your training standards could attract future customers with help from Ignite Education

We all knew training was important internally, now it's vital externally in these unprecedented times.

PBC re-opens to record attendence

Where the usual student groans at the idea of another day at school, PBC is recording record attendances in their first week back.

TAFE Queensland offers business support and upskilling opportunities

TAFE Queensland offers excellent opportunities to support your business and to upskill your staff as part of its COVID-19 response.

Currumbin RSL update on trading

A message to all their members and guests in regards to the impact of the government's recently released recovery roadmaps.

Support for business and workers: latest updates for businesses impacted by COVID-19

The Department of Employment, Small Business and Training is keeping us informed of the latest assistance from the Queensland and Australian Governments in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

CWS plays staring role in Tourism Australia's latest campaign

'Live from Aus' brought some of Australia’s best tourism offerings ‘live’ into the living rooms of hundreds of thousands of Australians. It highlighted the best that Australian tourism has to offer, from Australia’s unique culture to stunning natural beauty, world class food and drink and exceptional wildlife.

Currumbin State MP Laura Gerber shares her views on all things Southern Gold Coast

Newly elected Currumbin State MP Laura Gerber talks to SGC Chamber Board Member Michael Kelly about her thoughts on the Southern Gold Coast and how she plans on helping small business.

QTIC expands its endorsed Micro-Credentials program

The Queensland Tourism Industry Council (QTIC) endorsed micro-credentials offers alternative current skilling solutions that provides direct benefit to tourism and hospitality businesses, and their workforce.

Palm Beach SLSC: Now is the time to come together.

Palm Beach SLSC is encouraging business to connect in order to learn and sustain.

Sun Gold Coast: Focused on the journey ahead

Sun Gold Coast's response to Covid-19: rise to the occasion.

Global Wave Conference 2020 Achieves Stoke Certification

The 6th biennial Global Wave Conference held in February 2020 at Southern Cross University in Bilinga has become the first Australian event to be STOKE certified.

JobKeeper Exemption from Payroll Tax a WIN for Queensland Business

Businesses across Queensland are relieved to hear the announcement that JobKeeper payments will be exempt from Payroll Tax

Division 14 Councillor Newsletter - May 2020

Read the latest news from Division 14 Councillor Gail O'Neill

Currumbin Wildlife Hospital Virtual Benefit 2020

This year the Currumbin Wildlife Hospital Foundation invites all SGC member businesses to a first of its kind – 2020 Virtual Benefit Under the Stars.

The Surf Club Coolangatta: Prepared to adapt

From learning how to cook, getting your monday motivation or keeping up with your CPR Refresher: there is a lot to learn from The Surf Club Coolangatta and its response to current times.

Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary reopens iconic Sanctuary Cafe

While many businesses have closed their doors, Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary has found an innovative way to keep their doors open and continue their support for flora and fauna.

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