Business Support Fund open

The Business Support Fund applications are now open as part of the Victorian Government Economic Survival and Jobs Package.
Small businesses are eligible for $10,000 grants if they:

• employ staff
• are highly impacted by COVID-19 business restrictions
• have a turnover of more than $75,000
• have payroll of less than $650,000

Further questions?  Check out these great FAQs

JobKeeper Wage Subsidy 

The Federal Government has announced a new JobKeeper payment.

If your business has been impacted by the coronavirus, you may be able to access a wage subsidy to continue paying your employees. Eligible employers will be able to claim $1,500 fortnightly per eligible employee from 30 March 2020, for a maximum of 6 months.

Also hear the Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman, Kate Carnell explain how the JobKeeper payment works.

Council's COVID-19 Business Page

Please ensure you regularly check Council’s dedicated COVID-19 page that includes important links, updates and advice relevant for your business including information on other government support packages available.

Support Local

Now is the time more than ever to support local businesses!  Council's Support Local Business is a list of South Gippsland businesses with takeaway or home delivery options.  If you would like to be included, please complete this short form or

phone Melinda McLennan, Business Development Officer on 5662 9271.

Join a Chamber for free!

The Victorian Chamber of Commerce & Industry are offering a 12 month membership waiver for any new entry level membership.  Membership includes access to valuable online training and webinars.

Victorian Tourism Industry Council (VTIC) have also waived membership fees for any new entry level membership. This includes credit towards training.

Small Business Mentoring

Take advantage of the FREE Small Business Mentoring Service.  The mentors are there to listen, help guide and keep you motivated through these challenging times.  Next remote session is Thursday 16 April -  book your spot today!

Free webinars & business coaching

Given the challenges that small businesses are facing right now, Work My Own Way have released these fantastic high demand webinars which include digital marketing, cash flow and stress. These webinars are free and unlimited!

Alongside the webinars, they also have unlimited, no-cost business coaching advice on offer to assist during this difficult time.

Female Founders Initiative

The BFF Initiative (or program) aims to help female founders to access early stage capital to grow their startups in national and international markets.
Eligible EOIs will be accepted until 14 April 2020.