REDLANDS Coast businesses continue to juggle a range of everyday priorities this month, from rising cyber security risks and workforce pressures to the growing need for accurate, reliable information about regional developments.
Business leaders are reporting an increase in phishing attempts and online scams targeting small and medium enterprises, prompting stronger interest in practical cyber security safeguards.
Alongside this, there remains steady demand for guidance on employment contracts, debt management, and effective strategies to recruit and retain dependable staff in an increasingly competitive labour market.
These operational pressures sit alongside broader conversations about local infrastructure and development.
The Redlands Coast Chamber of Commerce continues to encourage businesses and the wider community to rely on trusted sources when interpreting updates on major projects, helping to shape realistic expectations amid varied and sometimes conflicting reports circulating online and through informal channels.
Chamber advocacy remains focused on initiatives that deliver clear economic returns for the region, particularly those that support sustainable employment and long-term opportunities for residents.
Construction continues to be a key area of focus, with ongoing efforts to ensure projects across Redlands prioritise local workers and suppliers wherever possible.
“Projects in our city must deliver genuine opportunities for locals,” a Chamber spokesperson said.
The Chamber’s events calendar is filling quickly, reflecting strong engagement across the business community.
A major health-focused event has been confirmed for May, alongside another collaborative event with Redland City Council to be announced soon as part of Small Business Month celebrations.
In March, Crime Stoppers will roll out its pilot program in Victoria Point through Business Watch: Eyes on the Street.
The initiative will work alongside local businesses to strengthen safety, awareness, and information sharing, in partnership with Queensland Police Service and the Chamber of Commerce and supported by Redland City Council.
Support for community organisations is also available through Redland City Council’s Rapid Response Grant under the Stronger Communities Program.
Grants of between $500 and $3000 are available to eligible not-for-profit organisations for projects that address urgent needs or strengthen organisational capacity.
Eligible activities include volunteer training, digital upgrades, governance planning, wildlife care equipment, and small portable items for community use.
The program opened on January 23 and will run until April 30, or until funding is exhausted, with applicants notified of outcomes within six weeks.
Further free business support is available through the Redlands Small Business Hub at Cleveland Library, where monthly Queensland Government Business Assistance sessions and periodic Mentoring for Growth appointments are delivered.
With strong momentum building, 2026 is shaping up to be a significant year for Redlands Coast businesses, offering real opportunities for growth and collaboration.
