Heading into 2026, businesses across the country face a landscape that is both challenging and full of opportunity. On one hand, many small and medium enterprises (SMEs) are feeling the pressure of rising input costs, elevated interest rates, and slower consumer spending, all of which are squeezing margins.
At the same time, there are glimmers of optimism, with recent data showing business confidence in Queensland remains above 2024 levels. These signs of resilience suggest that, despite ongoing challenges, businesses in key regions are in a stronger position to explore growth and innovation in the year ahead.
This is where government-backed programs such as grants, subsidies, apprenticeships, training supports, and incentives, can make a real difference. By tapping into these publicly funded initiatives, business can:
- Mitigate cost pressures by subsidising the cost of hiring or training skilled staff, or offsetting parts of equipment or technology upgrades.
- Invest in growth with lower risk by using grants to help fund expansion, innovation, or production improvements.
- Upgrade skills and capabilities by reskilling or upskilling workers to adapt to changing market demand, new technologies, or evolving sectors.
- Stay agile and resilient giving them flexibility to pivot, modernise, or take advantage of changing market conditions.
National government-funded programs
Across Australia, businesses have access to a broad suite of government-funded programs aimed at strengthening capability, encouraging innovation, and improving competitiveness. The programs below are a good starting point when assessing opportunities for your business in 2026.
Industry Growth Program
The Industry Growth Program aims to build Australia’s manufacturing capabilities by providing an Advisory Service to help SMEs commercialise innovative products and scale their business. Program grants ranging from $50,000 to $5 million are available for businesses within the priority areas of the Australian Government’s National Reconstruction Fund (NRF). Sectors include renewables, advance manufacturing, medical science, agriculture, defence, and transport.
Australian Apprenticeships Incentives System
The Australian Apprenticeships Incentives System provides wage subsidies to help businesses hire and train apprentices across many industries. This support can significantly reduce labour costs, boost workforce capability, and make it easier for construction, trades, hospitality, manufacturing, and regional businesses to bring in new talent and grow their operations.
Skills for Education and Employment Program
For business investing in experienced workers or shifting workforce capabilities, the Skills for Education and Employment (SEE) Program supports reskilling and upskilling for mid-career employees by providing access to foundation skills training to improve language, literacy, numeracy, and digital skills.
Digital Solutions and Small Business Advisory Services
For SMEs looking to grow in the digital economy, the Digital Solutions program offers free workshops, webinars, and self-paced tutorials covering digital marketing, social media, websites, business software, and cybersecurity. One-on-one advisory services are also available for a small fee.
Grants and Program Finder
The Australian Government’s Grants and Programs Finder makes it easier for businesses of all sizes to discover funding, rebates, and support programs tailored to their needs. From hiring and training to expansion, technology, or sustainability projects, it helps business owners quickly find publicly funded initiatives that can reduce costs and open up new opportunities.
How we can support your business in 2026
Alongside these initiatives, the right business banking support can make it easier to manage cash flow, plan ahead, and take advantage of new opportunities. No matter your industry, our Business Banking team is here to help with:
- Property development and property investment finance
- Asset and equipment finance
- Sustainable lending options
- Industry insights and economic updates
- Commercial banking and lending
- Personalised support from our Relationship Managers
If you would like to discuss opportunities for your business in 2026, please get in touch.
Sincerely,
Darren O’Hara
National Head of Business Banking