Council working with business to assist the economic downturn

Raymond Deegan, Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry

It’s no secret that the current situation with COVID-19 has massively affected businesses of all sizes and industries across the state, but the proactive and swift response of Local Government has brought welcome relief to business owners struggling to cope with the financial and mental stresses of trying to either - continue to do business or assure their business will see the other side of these strange and challenging times.

Literally millions of dollars have been disbursed across the state and allocated by Council’s to establish Small Business Support Programs, address mental health and emotional wellbeing - for the refunding, reduction or deferral of rates, fees and charges including suspending rents and fees associated with Council owned buildings and community based groups.

Council have fast tracked approvals for businesses diversifying and adapting to the current climate while also fast tracking payments to businesses for Council invoices – they’ve refunded or waived street trading and outdoor permits, food and health permits from March 1st and continue to pump extra funding into marketing and promoting local business and specifically ‘buy local’ focused campaigns.

Further free Council initiatives to support business include financial counselling, business mentoring programs and a host of business education programs and webinars in partnership with industry groups like Small Business Victoria, the ATO, AusIndustry and the Victorian Chamber of Commerce.

One of the truly great initiatives is how many of the Council Economic Development teams state-wide, are getting on the phone to talk to the business owners daily. This direct personal contact is so valuable during these times, providing an opportunity for close engagement, understanding and empathy, which is so needed to sustain morale during these uniquely difficult times.