A $8.76 million wellbeing package was announced in Queensland this week in support of small business owners.
The announcement was made in response to a state-wide campaign requesting greater awareness around the mental wellbeing of small business owners, including beauty salon owners.
Funds will be allocated toward the running of radio, digital and social media campaigns, as well as the hiring of additional wellbeing coaches in Cairns, Mackay, Townsville, Toowoomba, and North and South Brisbane. The six coaches will join a network of over 40 rural, tourism and small business financial counsellors across the state.
“The expanded network of counsellors and coaches will provide free, independent, confidential, one-on-one support to address the stressors and psychological support needs of small business owners,” QLD Minister for Employment and Small Business and Minister for Training and Skills Development, Di Farmer said in a media statement.
The package also includes a $3 million Small Business Support Service Fund to assist with alleviating stresses for small business owners. ‘Small Business Smile4Biz’, an established education program developed by the Kingaroy Chamber of Commerce, is also planned for expansion with the aim of delivering local mental health support tailored to the local needs of each participating chamber. “The Queensland Mental Health Commission is contributing $1.21 million to this valuable program to extend the six wellness coaches to three years until 30 June 2025,” Queensland Mental Health Commissioner Ivan Frkovic said.
Recent research commissioned by Beyond Blue and the Australian Securities and Investment Commission (ASIC) “confirms what small business owners have long suspected – that their mental wellbeing can be significantly affected when they are experiencing financial challenges,” the Commissioner said. “I encourage any small business owner who is worried about their mental wellbeing to contact a small business wellness coach in their location and get the support they need.”
To find out more about the Small Business Wellness Package visit www.business.qld.gov.au/wellness or contact the Small Business Hotline 1300 654 687.
For information on grants and other support for businesses visit the Business Queensland website at www.business.qld.gov.au or call the Small Business Hotline on 1300 654 687.
Lifeline 13 11 14
Beyondblue 1300 224 636
If you need help now, find a mental health service. Phone triple zero (000) or go to a hospital if you (or someone you know) is in immediate danger.
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