Rising fuel costs and global economic pressures were front and centre as the Sunshine Coast Business Awards officially opened nominations for 2026, launching Queensland Small Business Month.
About 200 business leaders, government representatives and industry stakeholders gathered at Maroochy RSL on May 1, with discussion focused on the real-time impact of cost pressures, particularly fuel, on small business, alongside broader geopolitical uncertainty shaping the operating environment.
The breakfast featured a keynote from Judo Bank chief economic advisor Warren Hogan, who outlined the forces driving current conditions and what businesses can expect in the months ahead.
Sunshine Coast Business Awards chair Jennifer Swaine says the event provided a timely opportunity for businesses to step back and engage with the bigger economic picture.
“There’s no question businesses are navigating a challenging environment, which makes opportunities to hear directly from leading economists and connect with others even more important,” she says.
Jennifer says opening nominations for the awards during this period was particularly relevant: “Recognition matters, especially in tougher conditions.
“The awards provide a platform to acknowledge the work businesses are doing and the contribution they make to the region.
“We consistently hear from businesses that even the process of applying is valuable. It creates a moment to step back, reflect on performance and identify opportunities for improvement.
“We’ve also simplified the application process in recent years, and we’d encourage businesses to attend an information session to understand how to apply.”
This year, the awards program will introduce a new category: the Corporate Community Champion award.
For more information, visit sunshinecoastbusinessawards.com.au.
