Shire pledges to support small business

VICTORIAN Small Business Commissioner Judy O’Connell and Golden Plains mayor Cr Helena Kirby signed a charter aimed at supporting small business in the municipality last Friday.

A VBSC’s Small Business Friendly Council Initiative, the document aims to making starting, running and growing a business simpler and easier.

With a focus on aiding the region’s small business community in any way possible, Cr Kirby said she was excited to join other councils in signing the charter.

“Our small businesses are key drivers of the local economy here in Golden Plains Shire and are a core part of the sense of community in our towns,” she said.

“We are pleased to sign the Small Business Friendly Council charter as part of our commitment to build on much-needed business supports we’ve provided in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.”

By signing the pledge, the Shire aims to better support new and existing business, promote the VSBC’s support offerings, help the sector continue trading throughout disruptive local works, and streamline the approval processes for permits.

“If anyone has any ideas to start a small business, now is the best time to get on board, get support and be a part of the Golden Plains,” Cr Kirby said.

“Each and every small business contributes something to the local economy, whether its employing staff, having a place where people can meet or even offering economic stimulus and tourism opportunities to the specific area.”

Ms O’Connell said she welcomed the commitment of the Golden Plains Shire to small businesses, as is join 52 other municipalities across the state who previously signed the document.

“We look forward to working together on ways to respond to local needs and ensure small businesses have a fair and inclusive operating environment,” she said.

“We found at the VSBC that a lot of the issues are around the council area so we thought we would work together with the councils to make sure that small businesses get the best advantage especially on the road to recovery.

“By signing the charter, the Golden Plains are saying they will work with their small business community, pay their small business suppliers within 14 days, work with business networks to encourage businesses to work together and have a streamlined approvals process.”