Call to think, shop, buy – and dine – local

As local restaurants and cafes prepare to reopen under eased COVID-19 restrictions this week, Brimbank City Council is asking the community to show their support and think, shop, buy – and dine – local.

Brimbank CEO Helen Morrissey said more than 90 per cent of Brimbank businesses had lost revenue and customers during the pandemic, and called on the community to rally in support of local businesses.

“So many local businesses have been doing it tough and we’re asking our community to show your Brimbank pride by shopping and dining with local businesses,” Ms Morrissey said.

“After months of lockdown, many in our community will be excited to get out and safely enjoy everything our wonderful local cafes and restaurants have to offer – whether that’s a banh mi, burger, curry, or a coffee and cake.”

Under the next Step of the Victorian Government’s roadmap, hospitality venues will be allowed to operate, largely focussing on outdoor dining and with specific controls, including having a COVID Safe Plan.

In preparation, Brimbank Council has made available a free COVID-19 temporary outdoor dining permit to hospitality venues. Businesses can apply here.

“As we start to re-open, the safety of businesses, employees, customers and the broader community remains our top priority,” Ms Morrissey said.

“Businesses are working hard to ensure they can meet the required safety standards and we strongly urge customers and everyone in our community to stay safe, and follow all of the health recommendations.”

Remember:

  • Wear your mask
  • Keep a safe distance from others
  • Wash your hands
  • Cough into your elbow
  • Stay home if you’re unwell

Throughout the pandemic, Council has continued to support businesses and vulnerable community members with a range of measures including rates relief, COVID-19 support services, business grants, and supporting local cafes and restaurants to safely prepare for outdoor dining.

Businesses affected by COVID-19 can access Business Support and Assistance Information and Resources on our website.

Council is working through a whole-of-Council Brimbank Coronavirus (COVID-19) Response and Recovery Strategy, and recently launched a new 19 Point Action Plan for COVID-19 Recovery and Response.

Earlier this year, Council established the COVID-19 Brimbank Response and Recovery Business Taskforce to understand the impact of the coronavirus and Government-mandated lockdowns, and to determine key local business advocacy priorities.

/Public Release. View in full here.