Renew Charters Towers

PROJECT OVERVIEW

The Renew Charters Towers project is part of the Regional Place Activation Program (RPAP), initiated in partnership with Renew Australia and the Queensland Small Business Commissioner (QSBC).

It aims to revitalise the Charters Towers CBD by activating vacant commercial places with creative businesses, startups, social enterprises, and not-for-profits.

How it Works

✔ Vacant shopfronts in Charters Towers CBD (Gill and Mosman Streets), will be activated to boost foot traffic and business activity.
✔ Properties will be offered rent-free on a 30-day rolling licence to local entrepreneurs and creatives.
✔ Selected participants will complement, not compete with existing businesses in the area.
✔ For Lease/For Sale signs remain, increasing exposure for property owners and attracting long-term tenants.

CREATIVES

🌟 Want to Bring Your Business Idea to Life in Charters Towers? 🌟

The Renew Charters Towers Activation Program is giving local entrepreneurs, creatives, and community groups the chance to trial their business in a shopfront location – rent-free!

Who Can Apply?

✔ Local creatives, makers, and small business owners
✔ Not-for-profits, social enterprises, and community groups
✔ Anyone with a unique idea that adds value to the town

What We’re Looking For:

✅ Businesses that bring something new to Charters Towers CBD and complement existing shops
✅ Entrepreneurs ready to create a welcoming, vibrant space
✅ Participants who will engage with the community and neighbouring businesses
✅ Commitment to high presentation standards and great customer service

How It Works:

🏠 A visible, rent-free shopfront to showcase your products or services
📅 30-day rolling licence – flexible with no long-term lease commitment
🛡 Insurance provided by Renew Australia for just $25 per week
⚡ Utilities covered by the participant
🎉 Support to launch your business and attract foot traffic

The Goal? A Win-Win for Everyone!

🏪 You grow your business in a real retail setting
🏠 Property owners gain exposure and potential long-term tenants
🛍 Charters Towers CBD becomes a thriving, active precinct

VACANT SHOPS

🌟 Want to Fill Your Vacant Premise and Be Part of this Community Initiative? 🌟

The Renew Charters Towers Activation Program is designed to activate vacant shopfronts and help match property owners with long-term tenants.

We are looking for visible, well-presented commercial spaces on either Gill Street or Mosman Street that are:
✔ Street-facing – shopfronts that add to the vibrancy of the CBD
✔ Move-in ready – safe, usable, and suitable for small businesses
✔ Well-maintained – clean and inviting for potential tenants

Why Get Involved?

🏡 For Property Owners & Agents
✅ A vibrant, occupied shopfront is easier to lease or sell
✅ Properties remain on the market while generating activity and exposure
✅ Participants operate under a rolling 30-day licence, so owners retain flexibility

🛍 For Local Traders
✅ Activated spaces increase foot traffic, boosting CBD appeal
✅ Participants complement, not compete with existing businesses
✅ A lively main street attracts new visitors and customers

How the 30-Day Licence Works

🔹 Not a lease – properties remain available for sale or lease
🔹 30-day rolling agreement – owners can give 30 days’ notice anytime
🔹 No rent required – making it ideal for businesses looking to test their ideas

This initiative is about temporary activation, but the impact could be long lasting - bringing energy, foot traffic, and opportunity to the Charters Towers CBD.

PROJECT SUPPORT

Renew Charters Towers is proudly supported by Charters Towers Regional Council and the Queensland Small Business Commissioner.

CONTACT DETAILS

For further information about the project please phone Council on 07 4761 5300 or mail@charterstowers.qld.gov.au