Cairns Small Business Expo program

Get ready for the Cairns Small Business Expo.

When: Tuesday 19 May 2026
Time: 9am–4pm
Where: The Conference Centre, Shangri-La The Marina Cairns

Register now

Exhibition area

9.30am

  • Welcome
    Presented by: David Sinclair, A/Director-General, Department of Customer Services, Open Data and Small and Family Business
  • Opening address
    Presented by: Hon Steve Minnikin MP, Minister for Small and Family Business

Marlin Room

10.30–10.45am

Meet the Queensland Small Business Commissioner
Presented by: Nicolle Kelly, Queensland Small Business Commissioner

This session offers attendees a unique opportunity to hear directly from the Queensland Small Business Commissioner. The Commissioner will present an overview of the role, responsibilities, and key functions in supporting small businesses across Queensland.

10.50–11.20am

Mastering financial fundamentals
Presented by: Small Business Financial Counsellors

This presentation will explore essential financial concepts tailored for small business owners, offering practical tools and actionable insights to enhance financial literacy and decision-making. This session is designed to empower small business owners with the knowledge and confidence to make informed financial decisions and drive sustainable growth.

11.30am–12.15pm

Preparing for the unexpected
Presented by:

  • Gillian Moody, Get Read Queensland
  • Renae Hanvin, CEO and Founder, Resilient Ready
  • Rosalind Searle, Executive Manager, AAMI Business Insurance

How to prepare and adapt in the face of unexpected challenges such as natural disasters or other disruptions, including the importance of business continuity planning and tips for navigating a tough insurance market. Key takeaways will include the importance of business continuity planning, practical strategies to diversify and pivot; and navigating insurance requirements.

12.30–1pm

Unlocking opportunities with Brisbane 2032
Presented by:

  • Rob McRuvie, Director of Procurement, Brisbane Organising Committee for the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games
  • Mike Swart, National Strategy Director, Industry Capability Network

The Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games offer a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for Queensland's small businesses. Attendees will learn practical steps to position their businesses for success now and explore strategies to maximise opportunities in the lead-up to, during, and after the Games. This is an essential session for businesses aiming to prepare early and secure long-term benefits from Brisbane 2032.

1.10–1.40pm

Getting tax right: Practical tips for small businesses
Presented by: Benjamin Lurje, Director – Small Business Experience, Australian Taxation Office (ATO)

This session provides practical guidance on common tax challenges, highlighting ATO support and resources that help small businesses get it right from the start.

1.40–2.25pm

Becoming visible to government buyers
Presented by: Queensland Government Procurement and QBuild

Unlock the secrets to standing out in Queensland's $35 billion government procurement market. This session provides valuable insights from Queensland Government Procurement on how small businesses can effectively position themselves to meet the expectations of government buyers. Attendees will learn what small businesses need to know about the procurement process, how to make themselves visible to government buyers, and the steps to get involved in local QBuild projects.

2.30–3.15pm

Resilient by design
Presented by:

  • Tim Bowen, Small Business Banker North QLD & NT
  • Sean Madigan, Partner, Public Sector Advisory, KordaMentha

Resilience businesses are equipped to adapt and thrive in an ever-changing environment. This session provides valuable insights into improving cash flow decision-making and building workforce capability without adding to overheads. These practical strategies will empower businesses to build resilience and confidently face future challenges.

Meet the Buyer (Lagoon Room)

3.30‐6pm

Meet the Buyer event

The Meet the Buyer event is a curated, speed‑networking opportunity designed to connect local small businesses with large buyers from across the region.