Message from the Minister

Permanent appointment of the Queensland Small Business Commissioner

Good afternoon

Following a nationwide, independent recruitment process, I am pleased to announce that Dominique Lamb has been appointed as Queensland's permanent Small Business Commissioner.

Ms Lamb is the former CEO of the National Retail Association (NRA) and brings to the Commissioner role extensive experience working with the small business sector across a wide range of policy areas, including economic recovery and industrial relations.

During her time with the NRA, Ms Lamb led advocacy for initiatives such as reducing single-use plastic, rent relief for businesses during COVID, development of skills and training programs, and domestic violence leave.

Outgoing Commissioner Maree Adshead is to be congratulated on the significant work delivered during her tenure to establish the office and provide assistance to businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic and natural disasters.

Ms Adshead is a passionate advocate for small business and she and her team have led engagement with government at all levels to champion Queensland small business needs and issues. Ms Adshead led us through two of the most difficult years and we have emerged with a stronger economy and business community as a result of her direct support to the business sector as a whole.

During 2021-22, the QSBC assisted small businesses, commercial landlords and small business stakeholders on more than 2,700 occasions. This included closing 251 disputes, 138 of which received free or low-cost mediation. The QSBC resolved 64% of disputes via informal resolution or mediation, with an average processing time of 51 days“ keeping small businesses out of lengthy and costly court processes.

As Queensland Small Business Commissioner, Ms Lamb and the office will continue to expand the Small Business Friendly Councils program and provide small businesses with a dedicated, central point of contact to access information, support and advice, including assistance with disputes involving a retail tenancy, small business lease or small business franchise.

Ms Lamb will commence as the Queensland Small Business Commissioner on 23 December 2022.

I congratulate Ms Lamb on her appointment and look forward to working with her to continue to support the needs of Queensland's small business sector.

Regards

Di Farmer
Minister for Employment and Small Business
Minister for Training and Skills Development