The recent Townsville floods have hit local retailers hard and many are only just now figuring out what the next steps for their business will be. The Queensland Government has established a Small Business Recovery Centre and Community Recovery Hub in Townsville to provide financial assistance and support services to local residents who have been affected by the widespread flooding across the city. Businesses experiencing hardship are encouraged to use this resource to assist with the recovery process.
The National Retail Association continues to provide support to members in the region. Stationed at the Townsville Small Business Recovery Hub over the weekend, Calum Woods, Senior Advisor at the National Retail Association worked with local retailers to get their business back on track. On Saturday, Calum met Michael, who owns three Donut King franchises in the area and was working hard to make sure his staff continued to be provided with shifts across his operating stores while the Fairfield location is being rebuilt after going under in the flood. Connecting with many of our Townsville members like Michael, Calum was able to provide advice and resources to support small business owners to get back on their feet.
Recovery teams will also be providing outreach services for individuals and business owners who are unable to visit the hubs in person, or can be contacted by phoning the Business Recovery Centre on 045 987 3781 or the Community Hub hotline on 1800 173 349. The Small Business Recovery Centre is located on the Ground Level, 143 Walker St (corner Stanley and Walker Streets), Townsville.
Small business owners impacted by flooding can also call the Queensland Rural and Industry Development Authority (QRIDA) on 1800 623 946 or visit www.business.qld.gov.au for assistance and information on the concessional loans available.