The council has taken up a Victorian Small Business Commission initiative which increases supportive measures for those trading locally. Mayor Sarah Carter and Council Chief Executive Officer Stephen Wall met with Commissioner Judy O'Connell recently to formalise the initiative's Charter and in so doing have committed to a number of measures.
These include prompt payment when dealing with small businesses, assisting when infrastructure works impact on trading operations and supporting locally-based business networks. Mayor Carter said being a part of the new initiative to provide stronger support for local business will benefit the economy and the community adding:
“Small businesses really are at the heart of Maribyrnong City and we’re here to provide them with the information, tools and guidance they need to succeed."
The City is home to more than 7,400 businesses ranging from retail outlets and healthcare to construction and printing services.
Signing of the Charter has enabled Council to build on the support it provides for small businesses, which are also able to use its Business Concierge for a one-point contact process for new registration applications.
The initiative has proven popular with 38 councils across Victoria now participating including neighbouring councils of Moonee Valley, Hume, Wyndham, Yarra, Moreland and Melton.