QUEENSLAND SMALL BUSINESS MUST COME BEFORE FREE TRADE PACTS AND INTERSTATE COMPETITORS

One would hope both Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk and Opposition Leader Tim Nicholls would have not only a political drive to put Queensland small business first, but a personal one as well. 

Fair enough, state governments of all persuasions have to be careful not to burn free trade bridges by overreaching with any form of protectionist like initiatives to boost local businesses. Within reason, interstate and foreign competitors should be given a fighting chance of "outdoing" their Queensland based rivals.

Likewise, they can't be overly jingoistic enough to make it an unlevel playing field for interstate competitors to jag government work and tenders over Queensland based alternatives if they are at least competitive on price and offer the best service and product. 

But if a Queensland based small business can do the work, do it at the right price and offer the best quality service and product, they should get preference. Dont believe a politician or journalist in Queensland who tells you otherwise.