Cardinia Shire Council has signed the charter to become a ‘Small Business Friendly Council’.
The initiative, delivered by the Victorian Small Business Commission (VSBC), is about making it easier for people to start, run and grow their businesses within our area.
The charter outlines Council’s commitment to:
- pay small businesses promptly
- work towards faster permit approvals
- support the creation of small business networks
- identify opportunities for the development of new business resources
- work with small businesses to manage impacts of disruptive infrastructure projects.
Cardinia Shire Mayor Councillor Graeme Moore said signing the charter bolsters Council’s commitment towards supporting local small business.
“With more than 8,200 registered businesses – small businesses make big contributions to a local economy, and our shire has a strong and vibrant small business base with agriculture, manufacturing, retail and construction businesses all contributing to our local economy.
“Council will continue to create, support and advocate for small business opportunities and we recognise that business growth and investment is vital to building sustainable communities and fostering local employment,” he said.
The Council’s pledge builds on the range of business support offered locally, including free online business workshops available through a partnership with Casey Cardinia Libraries and various events run through the Casey Cardinia Region partnership.
VSBC Commissioner Judy O’Connell visited Cardinia Shire Council to sign the charter with Cardinia Shire Mayor Cr Graeme Moore and CEO Carol Jeffs, and commended Council for making the pledge.
Commissioner Judy O’Connell said local councils are a vital support when it comes to getting a small business up and running, and that working together is the key.
“It’s great that Cardinia Shire Council has committed to work with us and local businesses in creating an inclusive and competitive operating environment for small business,” Commissioner O’Connell said.
