The Queensland Government is delivering on a key election promise, with Queensland local governments now able to apply for new funding to enhance security and deter criminal activity on their local small and family businesses.

The Queensland Government’s $40 million Secure Communities Partnerships Program will help to protect small businesses from crime and economic losses, through the installation of vital safety and security infrastructure.

Councils can apply for up to two grants worth $400,000 each to fund crime prevention measures to improve the security of business strips, including CCTV, bollards, lockable fencing, and improved perimeter security.

A total of $10 million is available to councils in the first of four rounds of funding under the program, with future rounds to be delivered over three years.

The Queensland Government continues to strengthen Queensland’s laws with the expansion of Adult Crime, Adult Time passed in Parliament last week.

Premier David Crisafulli said small and family businesses have long called for tougher action on crime, and this program delivers real support.

“We will continue to strengthen the law to ensure consequences for actions, but we will also strengthen our defences against would be criminals,” Premier Crisafulli said.

“Small and family business owners deserve to feel safe from crime, without worrying about being broken into and having their shop ransacked.

“The cost of a break-in to a small business isn’t just the value of what’s been stolen, it’s also the repairs, rising insurance and lost turnover from being closed.

“This funding will protect more livelihoods and, by bolstering security measures to stop crime before it happens, we can help restore safety where you live.”

Small and Family Business Minister Steve Minnikin said creating safe communities would allow small businesses to grow and prosper.

“We are delivering on our Small Business First promise to create safer communities, and this initiative is a key step in fostering safer and more vibrant business areas,” Minister Minnikin said.

“By working with local councils to deliver these vital safety projects, we’re not just protecting small businesses, we’re strengthening entire communities. When small businesses feel safe, they can invest, expand, and innovate.”

Round 1 is now open for applications at: www.business.qld.gov.au/securegrant

The Secure Communities Partnership Program is a key priority under the Queensland Government’s Small and Family Business First Action Statement