The Laundry Lady has been recognised as a finalist in the prestigious Business Builders’ Regional Heroes Awards. This nomination celebrates our journey from a small Sunshine Coast startup to a regional powerhouse connecting communities across Australia and New Zealand.
From Sunshine Coast HQ to national recognition
Starting from our headquarters on the Sunshine Coast, Queensland, we’ve built something remarkable. Our network now spans 350+ independent Laundry Ladies and Lads across Australia and New Zealand. This growth represents more than numbers – it reflects our commitment to creating real opportunities for regional communities.
Our founder, Susan Toft, saw a need in the market. She founded a business that could scale whilst promoting better work-life balance. This values-driven approach has become our foundation, saving people time whilst empowering local entrepreneurs.
Championing women and breaking barriers
We’re proud that 90% of our team are women. This isn’t by accident, it’s by design. Our flexible business model supports mums, carers, students, and those returning to the workforce. We’ve removed traditional barriers that prevent people from accessing meaningful work opportunities. We also welcome husband and wife teams and families who’re looking for a sustainable way to increase their weekly income.
The Laundry Lady offers comprehensive training and ongoing support. Our contractors work from home, using their own equipment, creating genuine flexibility that fits around family commitments and personal circumstances.
Industry-first technology and innovation
What sets us apart is our industry-first technology. We connect customers directly to laundry contractors in their area through our innovative booking system, Timeboss, a market maker platform. This technology showcases the Sunshine Coast as a hub for entrepreneurs and demonstrates how regional businesses can lead national innovation.
Our easy online booking system has been crucial to our success. Customers can access professional laundry services with next-day delivery, whilst our contractors receive consistent work opportunities through our centralised booking platform.
Community connections and local focus
Despite our national growth, we maintain strong community connections. We utilise local suppliers and manufacturers, supporting sustainable supply chains. Our business model serves both B2B and residential customers, creating multiple revenue streams for our contractors.
This local focus, combined with national growth, exemplifies the regional business approach that the Regional Heroes Awards celebrates. We’re not just a laundry service – we’re a community of entrepreneurs supporting each other.
When asked about what she loves the most about being a regional business, our CEO, Susan Toft, says: “Being regional keeps us grounded in real community needs. We understand our customers because we are our customers – busy regional families and businesses who value convenience and quality service. This authentic connection drives better product development and customer relationships.”
Supporting real work opportunities
Our independent contractor model offers genuine alternatives to traditional employment. Starting from just $499, contractors can launch their own business with our support. This low-cost entry point removes financial barriers that often prevent people from starting their own ventures.
We provide everything needed to succeed: branding materials, ongoing training, marketing support, and most importantly, customer bookings. This comprehensive approach means our contractors can focus on delivering excellent service whilst we handle business development.
Recognition that matters
This Regional Heroes nomination recognises our commitment to empowering regional businesses. It acknowledges how we’ve created sustainable work opportunities whilst delivering essential services to communities across Australia and New Zealand.
Our values-driven approach, combined with innovative technology and genuine community support, demonstrates what’s possible when regional businesses think big whilst staying connected to their roots.
Vote now – voting closes July 21
We need your support to bring this award home. If you believe in our mission of saving people time and empowering regional businesses, please cast your vote for us.
Voting closes July 21, so don’t delay. Your vote supports not just The Laundry Lady, but the entire network of entrepreneurs we’ve helped create across Australia and New Zealand.
