Townsville mayoral candidate Troy Thompson has launched a passionate campaign to bolster the city's small business sector, declaring local enterprises the "backbone" of the regional economy. The former soldier and current councillor unveiled his comprehensive plan to support small businesses through strategic council reforms and targeted spending initiatives.
A New Vision for Local Business Support
Thompson's proposal centers on transforming how Townsville City Council engages with local enterprises. The candidate pledged to direct a greater percentage of council spending toward Townsville-based small businesses, ensuring that community funds circulate within the local economy. His plan includes streamlining council procurement processes that many small business owners find cumbersome and difficult to navigate.
"We need to back our small business backbone," Thompson declared during his campaign announcement. He emphasized that small and medium enterprises form the foundation of Townsville's economic landscape, providing employment and sustaining community vitality. The mayoral candidate criticized current council practices for sometimes favoring larger, out-of-town contractors over local operators.
Practical Support Measures
Thompson's business support package includes several concrete initiatives designed to ease operational pressures on local enterprises. He proposed establishing a dedicated small business liaison position within council to help entrepreneurs navigate regulatory requirements and access support services. This role would specifically assist with compliance matters and connect business owners with available resources.
The candidate also addressed infrastructure concerns affecting local commerce. He highlighted the need for improved parking arrangements in business districts and committed to consulting directly with small business operators about their specific needs. Thompson's approach emphasizes practical solutions over bureaucratic processes, reflecting his background as a small business operator himself before entering politics.
Economic Benefits for the Wider Community
Thompson argued that strengthening small businesses creates a positive ripple effect throughout the Townsville economy. When local enterprises thrive, they generate employment opportunities and keep spending within the community. His plan aims to create what he describes as a "virtuous cycle" of local economic activity that benefits all residents.
The mayoral candidate pointed to the challenging economic conditions many small business owners currently face, including rising costs and competitive pressures. His proposed reforms seek to provide some relief through council policy while positioning local enterprises for long-term sustainability and growth.
Thompson's small business policy forms a key component of his broader campaign platform as he seeks the city's top leadership position. With small businesses employing a significant portion of Townsville's workforce, his focus on this sector addresses what many residents consider a critical economic priority for the region's future development.
