Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) sustainability in regional and disaster‑prone economies

ABSTRACT This study examines the sustainability determinants of Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) operating in disaster-prone regions of Queensland, Australia. The study adopts a dual-method research design comprising a Systematic Literature Review (SLR) conducted in accordance with the PRISMA framework and a structured survey administered to 60 SME owners and managers located in disaster-affected regional Queensland. Data was analysed using exploratory factor analysis and complementary statistical techniques to identify the underlying dimensions influencing SME sustainability. The analysis identified five principal determinants of SME sustainability: government policies, economic and business systems, available infrastructure, frequency of disasters and uncertainty, and residual resilience. These findings highlight the critical role of adaptive capacity and supportive institutional environments in strengthening SME sustainability within disaster-prone contexts. This study contributes to the existing body of knowledge by developing an integrated sustainability framework that captures the complex interactions among factors constituting regional SMEs’ sustainability. The framework provides valuable insights for policymakers and business leaders seeking to enhance disaster preparedness, recovery capacity, and long-term regional economic sustainability.