City service to help those building a new business

Armstrong Barbecue used the Business Concierge service as it sought planning and building regulation permits and food registration. Pictured are Armstrong Barbecue's Tim Jordan and Cr Emma Sinclair. Photos: SUPPLIED

THOSE keen to start a new business in 2025 are encouraged to use free support available from the City of Greater Geelong.

The Business Concierge service is run by the city’s Economic and Cultural Development team and helps businesses get set up and trading as soon as possible.

The team provides dedicated contact points for permits, compliance steps and local economic insights.

Geelong mayor Stretch Kontelj said the service can help prospective business owners know where to start and who to speak to.

“Our Business Concierge team is a one-stop-shop to help get your business off the ground in 2025 and be the best it can be.

“The Economic and Cultural Development team are here to help streamline the process, give advice and explore opportunities with you.”

The city can help businesses identify the applicable Planning Scheme and Building Regulations requirements early, which will determine what can be done on the land and whether there will be additional costs associated with ensuring the premises are compliant.

The city’s Economic and Cultural Development team can help buisnesses streamline the process, give advice and explore opportunities.

If a business requires multiple permits and/or registrations from the city, the Business Concierge may recommend a business pre-application meeting if needed to discuss the business proposal in detail with the relevant regulatory departments at the city.

During the 2023-24 financial year, 430 people used the service to set up cafés, bars, dog groom servies, restaurants, retail stores and other kinds of businesses.

The service received the highest number of enquiries from those based in Geelong, Lara, Ocean Grove, Geelong West, Newtown, Belmont, Grovedale and Bell Park.

Charlemont Ward councillor Emma Sinclair said the city are dedicated to strengthening and empowering the small business sector.

“It is estimated that small business generates around $9 billion annual revenue in our region.

“Our free service covers each stage of the business journey, offering existing traders support as they look to expand.”

For more information, head to geelongaustralia.com.au/startingabusiness