Introduction
Council is committed to supporting businesses to start, grow and prosper. In turn, this gives the community access to a diverse range of local jobs which is important for a strong local economy.
There are more than 17,000 businesses registered in the City of Whittlesea.
Council provides direct support for new and existing businesses and helps connect local businesses of all sizes with state and federal government programs.
The program facilitates short-term commercial agreements by establishing connections between property owners, real estate agents and local start-ups, social enterprises, artists or not-for-profit organisations. With the aim of reducing the number of vacant retail spaces in shopping precincts around the municipality.
For more information, contact business@whittlesea.vic.gov.au.
If you're thinking about starting your own business or already run a business, but have questions about how to expand, what permits you need and which regulations apply to your operation, our Business Concierge service is the ideal place to start.
Call 9217 2180 or email business.concierge@ whittlesea.vic.gov.au.
Representing over 400 food, beverage and fibre manufacturers operating in northern Melbourne, this network presents an opportunity for members to access a range of services including: assistance with government grants, trade shows and buyer visits, training and skills development workshops, a buying group, a manufacturer and service delivery directory, networking events and more.
www.melbournesnorthfoodgroup.com.au
Small Business Victoria helps small business owners and operators plan, start and grow their business, with tools, including a range of business plan templates, and information on how to register your business, how to choose the best location and calculate the costs behind your business idea.
www.business.vic.gov.au/business-information/start-a-business
Businesses looking for staff are encouraged visit Jobs Victoria website Looking for staff | Jobs Victoria for assistance to recruit for staff - Jobs Victoria offers free recruitment support to connect businesses and employers with new staff. They also provide wage subsidies of up to $20,000 to support new staff and grow your business.
As part of the Strong Local Economy Strategy, Council will be seeking to work with business on developing local strategies to support workforce skills are matched to industry needs both now into the future. This includes developing an Economic Participation Plan in 2022-23.
Created to showcase the City of Whittlesea's tourism, events and hospitality industries to visitors and locals alike, local businesses are invited to connect with Council to have their business featured on the Explore Whittlesea website and social media channels.

Council’s monthly Business eNewsletter features a round-up of the news, opportunities and events for local businesses.
Resources and support
The Victorian and Australian Governments have a range of support tools and programs designed specifically for the business community. The support can change regularly and we recommend that you scan the QR Codes below to find out the latest information on what could be available for your business. Each service communicates with regular newsletters sent via email, signing up to these can also help you stay up to date.
The City of Whittlesea is proud of the diversity of its business community and Council has services and support available in languages other than English. On our website use Google translate or phone 131 450 to use our free interpreter service.
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