Small and family businesses across the City of Moreton Bay are being encouraged to apply for Queensland Government funding to strengthen security at their premises through the $40 million Secure Communities Partnership Program.
The program provides grants ranging from $5,000 to $20,000 excluding GST to help businesses invest in crime prevention measures, with successful applicants required to contribute at least 50 per cent of total project costs.
Funding can be used for a range of security upgrades including CCTV and surveillance systems, alarm and duress systems, access control technology, security lighting, secure fencing, security screens, bollards and safes.
To be eligible, businesses must employ fewer than 20 full-time equivalent staff, have an annual turnover of $10 million or less, be registered for GST, have been operating for at least one year and have their headquarters in Queensland. Applicants must also demonstrate they have been directly impacted by crime within the past five years or operate within 250 metres of commercial premises affected by crime.
Under the latest round of the program, 62 small and family businesses across Queensland received funding to improve security and reduce the risk of criminal activity.
Among the recipients was Brisbane Whale Watching, which will use the funding to strengthen security systems protecting its vessel and operations.
Director and Captain Kerry Lopez said the grant would help improve security both onboard and while the vessel was docked.
“We applied for this funding to enhance not only security measures onboard our vessel but more importantly, during periods when it is docked, ensuring it remains protected at all times,” Captain Kerry said.
“This program will support key upgrades including internal and external alarm systems, enhanced monitoring capability, and improved camera surveillance across the vessel, all designed to strengthen real-time security and deter unauthorised access.”
Queensland Small Business Commissioner Nicolle Kelly said the program was helping businesses create safer environments for staff and customers.
“The Secure Communities Partnership Program is more than a safety initiative. It’s an investment in the future of Queensland’s small businesses,” Ms Kelly said.
Applications remain open until 30 June 2026 or until available funding has been fully allocated.
For City of Moreton Bay businesses facing increasing costs associated with security, vandalism and asset protection, the program provides an opportunity to reduce the financial burden of security upgrades while improving safety for staff, customers and the wider community.
Businesses can check their eligibility and apply through the Queensland Government’s Secure Communities Partnership Program website.
