Toowoomba Regional Council (TRC) Environmental and Regulatory Services portfolio spokesperson Councillor Bill Cahill is calling on new business owners to 'do their homework' ahead of opening new premises.
Toowoomba Region has seen 630 new businesses opening on average in recent years prompting Cr Cahill to urge new owners to be aware of their obligations.
"It is very exciting to be opening the doors on a new business," Cr Cahill said. "However, to operate lawfully there are a number of approvals you require when it comes to commercial and industrial premises."
"For example, local businesses have a responsibility to their employees and customers to ensure their premises are safe before they begin to operate," he said.
"There are some hefty state government requirements relating to fire safety and sanitation that businesses must ensure they consider when deciding to lease a building."
Cr Cahill said Council is responsible for enforcement across a variety of State Government Building, Planning and Food Acts which are designed to protect the wellbeing of the community.
"Council has enforcement responsibilities under a range of State Government Acts and legislation as well as our own local laws," he said.
"We take this responsibility seriously and we have an obligation to take enforcement or legal action against anyone responsible for placing people at risk and failing to meet the requirements of legislation."
Cr Cahill urged businesses to do their due diligence before committing to a contract.
"Seek all the available information and copies of available approval documentation you can from the realtor and if any doubt remains seek advice from a private building certifier to ensure the building you intend to operate from has the appropriate building classification, meets the building code requirements and is fit for the intended commercial purpose," he said.
"Council can provide direct advice on matters where the State Government has made us responsible, however, business owners will need to seek their own advice from private specialists in some circumstances to ensure they are meeting all their obligations as a business owner.
"We want to provide a supportive environment for local business and see our business community grow.
"On the other hand, Council can't overlook negligence, particularly when it puts members of the community at risk, so that is why I am urging people to get the right checks done first."
