Queensland Small Business Advisory Council

A born and bred Queenslander, the Honourable Lance McCallum was elected to the Queensland Parliament in March 2020, representing the Ipswich-based seat of Bundamba.

In December 2023, Mr McCallum became the Minister for Employment and Small Business and Minister for Training and Skills Development after previously serving Queenslanders as the Assistant Minister for Energy.

Small business is a critical contributor to Queensland's nation leading, post-pandemic economic recovery with more than 448,000 family-owned enterprises creating jobs for almost half of the State's private sector workforce.

Mr McCallum is a strong believer in a fair go and is passionate about the value of workforce education, skills and training in supporting small businesses in Queensland to thrive.

The Miles Government's record investment in Vocational Education and Training – including free TAFE – recognises when small businesses prosper, they provide good, secure jobs for Queenslanders which strengthens the social and economic wellbeing of the entire State.

Minister McCallum is a proud member of the Gubbi Gubbi Nation, a McKinnon Scholar and holds a Master of Sustainability and Climate Policy.

Queensland is home to more than 448,000 small businesses that are at the core of every industry sector. They are in every community in every region, represent over 97% of businesses statewide, and employ approximately 44% of all private sector workers. Lance is passionate about small business being front and centre of the Queensland Government's plans for economic recovery.

Dominique Lamb assumed the role of Small Business Commissioner in December 2022. With a robust background in industrial relations and employment law, she brings a unique blend of legal expertise and advocacy skills to her position.

Dominique's primary objective is to enhance the operating environment for small businesses in Queensland and to reduce the time and costs associated with resolving disputes involving small business. In her capacity as Commissioner, Dominique has embarked on a proactive engagement strategy, collaborating closely with governmental bodies, industry organisations, and regional stakeholders. One of Dominique's notable achievements has been the significant expansion of the Small Business Friendly (SBF) Program, which now boasts participation from 47 Councils. Additionally, she has taken proactive steps to establish 3 new roundtables, providing platforms for industry representatives and regional stakeholders to voice their concerns and contribute to policy discussions.

Beyond her professional endeavours, Dominique is deeply committed to social causes, particularly those addressing domestic and family violence.

Heidi Cooper is the Chief Executive Officer of the Business Chamber Queensland (BCQ). Heidi has dedicated her career to the advancement of business and is a passionate advocate for the strategic growth of Queensland.

With over 20 years' experience in law, corporate affairs and policy making, Heidi has successfully driven strategies for major companies with strong growth agendas and significant customer and community relationships. She has specialised in leading sustainable business initiatives with a key focus on economic growth, job creation, education, sustainability and community engagement.

Heidi has worked across a diverse range of industries and has held board positions and senior roles in infrastructure, energy, education and training, agriculture, and not-for-profit sectors. She is also a member of the Jobs Queensland Board and the Brisbane Festival Giving Committee.