THE Victorian Small Business Commission is working with the Mitchell Shire Council to make it easier to start, operate and grow a small business.
Mitchell Shire Mayor David Lowe, met with Member for Yan Yean Danielle Green and commissioner Judy O’Connell to make the pledge on Tuesday.
Mitchell Shire Council is now committing to a range of measures including helping to manage impacts to trade caused by infrastructure works, paying small businesses promptly and working towards faster permit approvals.
Ms Green said the State Government’s Small Business Charter was one part of making it easier to do business in regional Victoria – and in turn supporting jobs in the region.
Regional payroll tax will also be dropped to just a quarter of the metropolitan rate by 2022.
“We are about supporting businesses right across Mitchell Shire so they can continue supporting local jobs and economic growth in the region,” Ms Green said.
With more than 3100 businesses in the shire ranging from manufacturing and construction services to pharmacies and restaurants, Mayor Cr Lowe said signing up was a step forward.
“Small businesses are the lifeblood of our shire and we’re here to provide the information, tools and assistance they need to succeed and continue strengthening our local economy” Cr Lowe said.
Ms O’Connell said councils were an important support for businesses and working together was vital.
“It’s really positive that Mitchell Shire Council is committed to working with us in helping to create a level playing field for local businesses,” Ms O’Connell said.
The pledge builds on existing council measures including business mentoring, grants, guidance for entrepreneurs in developing a startup and support for local business networks.
