Local SEO Tips to Get Your Cairns Business on Google Maps

If your business isn’t showing up on Google Maps, you’re missing out on local customers searching for exactly what you offer. Whether you're running a cafe in Edge Hill or a plumbing service in Smithfield, appearing in the “Map Pack” can bring in more calls, visits and enquiries from people nearby.

Here are some proven local SEO tips to help get your Cairns business ranking on Google Maps — and keep it there.

1. Set Up and Optimise Your Google Business Profile

Your Google Business Profile (formerly Google My Business) is the foundation of local SEO. It’s what powers those map listings you see when you search for services near you.

Make sure to:

• Use your exact business name (no added keywords)

• Choose the most accurate business category

• Add your address, phone number, and website

• Include your service areas if you travel to customers

• Upload photos of your premises, team or work

• Write a helpful business description using natural keywords like “plumber in Cairns” or “Cairns hair salon”

Need help getting this right? I can assist with local SEO setup and optimisation.

2. Collect Genuine Google Reviews

Google reviews are one of the strongest ranking signals for local search. They also influence whether customers choose you over the next listing.

Tips to get more reviews:

• Ask happy customers to leave a review after a job well done

• Include a review link in your email signature or invoices

• Reply to every review – good or bad – in a friendly, professional way

Businesses with more quality reviews tend to rank higher on Maps, especially when they mention relevant services (e.g. “great SEO service in Cairns”).

3. Keep Your Business Details Consistent

Google wants to trust that your business is real, so consistency is key. Make sure your NAP (Name, Address, Phone) matches exactly across:

• Your website

• Google Business Profile

• Local directories (e.g. Yellow Pages, TrueLocal, Hotfrog)

• Social media accounts

Even a slight difference (like “Street” vs “St”) can reduce your visibility.

Need help checking this? I offer technical SEO audits that review these details and more.

4. Add Location Pages or Service Area Content

If you serve multiple suburbs around Cairns, your website should reflect that.

Create a dedicated page for each service or area, for example:

• “SEO Services in Cairns North”

• “Google Ads Management in Portsmith”

These pages should include:

• Unique content for that area or service

• Local landmarks or references

• Internal links back to your main SEO services page

This helps Google understand where you work — and helps you rank in those searches.

5. Use Structured Data to Help Google Understand Your Business

Schema markup (also known as structured data) is code added to your website that gives search engines more context.

For local SEO, this might include:

• @type: LocalBusiness

• Your address, phone, opening hours

• Reviews and service areas

If you’re not sure how to add this, I can help implement schema as part of a local SEO strategy.

6. Build Local Links and Citations

Local backlinks help build trust and authority in Google’s eyes. Here’s how to get started:

• Submit your site to local directories

• Partner with local businesses or sponsors for links

• Join Cairns-based business networks or chambers of commerce

• Get featured in local blogs or news websites

These links tell Google you’re a trusted part of the Cairns community.

Final Tip: Be Patient but Consistent

Google Maps rankings don’t change overnight. But with the right foundation, consistent updates, and a bit of expert help, your Cairns business can rank higher and attract more local customers.

If you'd like a tailored strategy or help with setup, I offer local SEO services in Cairns with no lock-in contracts and clear monthly reporting.