Queensland small and family businesses will gain access to more free training opportunities under an expanded $11.5 million micro-credentials program that will introduce new courses in areas including artificial intelligence, cyber security and procurement.
The Queensland Government said the initiative, delivered in partnership with the University of the Sunshine Coast, will add six new short courses by 2029 to help business owners and staff develop practical skills that reflect changing industry needs.
The program forms part of the Crisafulli Government’s Small and Family Business First Action Statement, which aims to support businesses through growth, workforce development and greater resilience.
Micro-credentials are short, targeted courses designed to help people build specific skills without committing to longer study programs. The expanded offering will focus on areas that are increasingly important for small businesses, including digital technologies, cybersecurity, procurement processes and other operational capabilities.
The government said the courses are intended to help businesses adapt to changing economic conditions and improve their ability to compete and grow.
A key feature of the program is its flexible delivery model, with courses available through face-to-face, online and hybrid formats. The approach is designed to make training more accessible for business owners and employees across metropolitan, regional and remote parts of Queensland.
Minister for Small and Family Business Steve Minnikin said the investment would provide practical support for small and family businesses.
“Small and family businesses are the backbone of Queensland’s economy, driving jobs, innovation and growth in communities across the state,” he said.
“This $11.5 million investment will give small and family businesses the practical tools and support they need to grow, invest and strengthen their resilience in a changing economic landscape.”
He said accessibility had been prioritised through flexible learning options that allow participants to complete courses around their business commitments.
Member for Buderim Brent Mickelberg said the courses would help business owners and managers strengthen planning and operational skills.
“From mastering planning to leveraging digital tools, these programs are tailored to meet the real-world needs of Queensland small businesses,” he said.
“Whether you’re in a regional town or a busy city, these courses are available to help small and family businesses across Queensland adapt, grow and stay competitive.”
The University of the Sunshine Coast will deliver the courses and develop content designed to meet current industry requirements.
Vice-Chancellor and President Professor Helen Bartlett said the partnership would provide practical and accessible training for business owners and their staff.
“University of the Sunshine Coast is proud to partner with the Crisafulli Government to deliver flexible, industry-relevant micro-credentials that support the real needs of small and family businesses,” she said.
“By designing courses that are targeted, contemporary and accessible, we can help ensure business owners and their staff have access to learning that is both relevant and immediately useful to their business operations.”
The program is expected to roll out additional courses progressively through to 2029. Businesses will be able to access information about eligibility and enrolment through the program website.
Small and family businesses account for a large share of Queensland’s business sector and employment, and governments across Australia have increasingly used short-form training programs to support digital adoption, cybersecurity awareness and workforce capability. The Queensland initiative adds to those efforts by focusing on flexible training that can be undertaken alongside day-to-day business operations.
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