This free course will help you gain a clear understanding of the factors underpinning your success and what is critical for your long term survival. Adopt strategic management principles and develop a customised business plan to help your business survive and thrive.
This course is proudly supported by the Queensland Government.
Who is this course for?
- Small and family businesses
- Based in Queensland
How is the course delivered?
- 2 hours per week for 6 weeks
- Delivered simultaneously online and in-person
- All workshops are fully supported for online delivery so if you are not located near the onsite location, please feel welcome to join online from anywhere in Queensland
What will you gain?
- Practical strategies to integrate the principles of strategic management into your business
- A customised business plan suitable for sourcing funds from banks, investors or grants
- Expert feedback tailored to your business
- Opportunities to network with like-minded business owners
Course overview
Module 1: Owning and Managing a Small Business in Queensland
Module 2: Understanding Your Business
Module 3: Understanding the Market
Module 4: Assessing Risk, Legal Obligations and Insurance Needs
Module 5: Financial Management
Module 6: Operating Plan and Exit Strategy
Registrations for 2026 courses are opening soon.
For more information, email wpc@usc.edu.au or phone +61 7 5430 2925
Hear from past participants
Develop a structured plan
The direction and structure has helped Kerrie review her business operations, policies and procedures and develop plans to expand and grow her business.
Time for strategy
Sasha enjoyed taking a break from the daily grind of running her small business to focus on strategy for long term success.
Guidance and direction
Gain new knowledge and receive support to develop a business plan that will take your business forward.
Flexible learning
Paul found the support, opportunities to interact and flexible course delivery beneficial.
Focus and prioritise
The course helped Jennifer's business prioritise and plan for the future.
Expand your network
Elana opened the doors to new opportunities during the networking opportunities at UniSC.
Planning for growth
Hear how Darren used the planning principles he learned in this course to achieve a 300% increase in his business.
Develop a business plan
Develop or revise your business plan and focus your efforts and marketing with advice from industry experts.
Future-proof your business
Define what you are doing well and plan where you'd like to see your business go, with expert advice along the way.
Meet the Course Coordinator
Dr Wayne Graham is a Senior Lecturer in Management. Wayne has developed a suite of microcredential planning courses in collaboration with all levels of government and stakeholders from a variety of industry sectors. The courses are co-designed, co-delivered and co-evaluated with industry representatives and government agencies. Funding for the courses has been provided by the Queensland Government. The courses are offered simultaneously online and onsite at various locations throughout the state.
Wayne has presented his research findings at national and international conferences and he has published his research in peer-reviewed journals, including the Journal of Health Organization and Management, the International Journal of Educational Management, and the Journal of Business and Industrial Marketing. As well as working in higher education, Wayne has worked in the vocational education sector, the automotive industry and local government.
