28 October 2019
Mornington Peninsula Shire has officially become a Small Business Friendly Council, committing to give small businesses in the region more supports.
The Victorian Small Business Commission is rolling out this initiative to make it a lot easier for small business owners to get started and develop their businesses.
Commissioner Judy O’Connell met with the council’s Mayor, David Gill and CEO John Baker in Rosebud yesterday morning to sign the initiative’s Charter.
Signing is Mornington Peninsula Shire saying yes to working together on a range of supports, including:
- paying small businesses within 30 days
- helping set up and support local business networks
- working towards faster permit approvals for people looking to open a new business
- helping to manage impacts to trade that can happen as a result of disruptive infrastructure projects.
Minister for Small Business the Hon Adem Somyurek MP said the Victorian Government is committed to creating a fairer business environment.
“Our Small Business Friendly Charter helps councils support local small businesses and boost economic growth,” Minister Somyurek said.
Mayor Gill said he was pleased to have signed up to support the local business community, which is rich in construction, retail, health care, tourism and hospitality.
“Becoming a Small Business Friendly Council opens a lot of opportunities for Mornington Peninsula Shire to further support new businesses to get up and running and established businesses to grow,” Mayor Gill said.
CEO John Baker said the small business community was an integral contributor to our local economy.
“We’re confident that this initiative will help our local small businesses to develop and flourish”, Mr Baker said.
The council’s move to join the initiative builds on current supports, including Mornington Peninsula Business, a one-stop shop where local businesses can find out about training opportunities, events, development programs, grants and ways to connect with local trader groups.
Commissioner O’Connell congratulates the Council or signing up.
“It’s really positive to see Mornington Peninsula Shire’s want to create a level playing field by giving local businesses the supports they need to do business,” Commissioner O’Connell said.
