Please note, this page is closed and no further updates will be shared on this page. For the latest information on the Ipswich City Council services, please visit
-
ipswich.qld.gov.au
Background
The Welcome to Ipswich Central: Business Incentive Program is designed to offer financial support to retail, arts, creative, food, or hospitality businesses interested in opening a physical shopfront in Ipswich Central.
By increasing the number of businesses in Ipswich Central, the program aims to enhance economic activity and contribute to the vision for Ipswich Central, creating a vibrant city centre.
Thank you to those who applied for the Welcome to Ipswich Central: Business Incentive Program for the 2024/2025 and 2025/2026 financial years.
Click the Follow button below to stay up to date with any new funding opportunities available through this stream.
2024/2025 program
Thank you to everyone who applied for funding. We received applications from a wide range of local businesses and appreciate their interest in the program.
2025/2026 program
Thank you to everyone who applied for funding. We received applications from a wide range of local businesses and appreciate their interest in the program.
Funding information
For additional details of the program and funding stream, see below.
The Welcome to Ipswich Central: Business Incentive Program aimed to financially support retail, arts, creative, food, or hospitality businesses to establish a physical presence in Ipswich Central.
The program was designed to support the vision that Ipswich Central is the Cultural Hub and Beating Heart of the Ipswich Community by attracting a diverse range of businesses.
Successful applicants could receive reimbursement of up to $4,000 (excluding GST) for expenses such as shop fit-outs, furniture and equipment, and point of sale systems.
The total funding pool was capped at $20,000 and was available on a rolling basis until the funds were exhausted.
Eligible businesses must have commenced a minimum 12-month lease after a prescribed date, have an appropriate business registration (ABN), and align with the vision for Ipswich Central.
It's important to note that submission of an application does not guarantee participation, and certain expenses such as subscription and merchant fees, advertising, and professional services fees are ineligible for reimbursement.
Applicants must agree to the program's terms and conditions and provide evidence of their financial contribution where required.
2024 Community Consultation
Thank you to everyone who shared their thoughts on the Welcome to Ipswich Central: Business Incentive Program. Consultation sought to understand what businesses. We have reviewed your feedback and shared a summary of the findings below
A summary of the contributors to the survey can be found below, or click here to read the full report.
What you shared
-
Retail Businesses
Respondents shared that they would like retail stores to offer a diverse selection of products, with a focus on mid-to-high-end brands, creating a well-rounded destination for both shopping and dining.
-
Arts and Creative
Respondents expressed a preference for more arts and creative businesses in Ipswich Central, emphasising diverse offerings that appeal to both residents and visitors.
-
Hospitality and Food Businesses
Respondents supported the addition of more hospitality and food businesses, with a desire for a variety of outlets, including fresh produce, specialty food sections, salad and juice bars, and bakeries.
-
Unique and Premium Outlets
There is strong support for local businesses, emphasising diverse, high-quality outlets and advocating for grassroots enterprises.
-
Community and Culture
Comments suggested expanding multicultural dining options to enhance hospitality diversity.
How you shared
Quick Poll
Which business would you like to see?
This poll has concluded.
Total Votes: 49
Who shared
The community was asked to share their preference in what businesses they would like to see in Ipswich Central.
A summary of the demographics of who contributed to the survey can be seen below.
