1 May 2026: Rising fuel costs and global economic pressures were front and centre this morning as the Sunshine Coast Business Awards officially opened nominations for 2026, launching Queensland Small Business Month.
Around 200 business leaders, government representatives and industry stakeholders gathered at Maroochy RSL, with discussion focused on the real-time impact of cost pressures on small business, particularly fuel, 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 said the event provided a timely opportunity for businesses to step back and engage with the bigger economic picture.
“Fuel and input costs are a major pressure point for many businesses right now, and that’s flowing through to every part of operations,” she said.
“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.”
Swaine said 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,” she said.
“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 also introduce a new category – the Corporate Community Champion Award – reflecting the growing recognition that business success extends beyond economic performance.
The category recognises for-profit businesses that demonstrate a genuine and strategic commitment to supporting the community through structured and sustained initiatives, including workplace volunteering, partnerships with community organisations, and programs that deliver meaningful social outcomes.
“These are businesses that are embedding community contribution into their operations and culture, and playing a vital role in strengthening the social fabric of the Sunshine Coast,” Swaine said.
“It’s something we’ve heard consistently from our business community and sponsors – that this contribution deserves to be recognised alongside commercial success.”
The event officially launched Queensland Small Business Month, a statewide initiative recognising the contribution of small and family businesses, which form a significant part of the region’s workforce and economic output.
Speakers also included Sunshine Coast Councillor Terry Landsberg and Noosa Mayor Frank Wilkie, who highlighted the strength of the region’s business community and the importance of ongoing collaboration.
The Sunshine Coast Business Awards program provides a platform for businesses of all sizes and industries to benchmark performance, gain recognition and connect with peers.
Nominations are now open, with finalists to be announced later in the year ahead of the annual gala event.
Ends.
For more information, images and interviews please contact Heather or Jen at The Comms. People:
Heather Mollins | 0412421411 | heather@commspeople.au
Jennifer Swaine | 0438952830 | jen@commspeople.au
The Comms. People provides public relations and communications support for the Sunshine Coast Business Awards.
Photo: Michael Snedic