Local councils can be a great support for your business.

Whether you're just getting started or planning your next step, your council can connect you with tailored support, advice and local networks.

How local councils can help

Councils offer many supports for businesses.

They also work with business associations to improve their reach and to better understand the needs of local businesses.

Examples of the types of activities councils deliver include:

  • networking events to build relationships with other businesses, share insights, develop new skills
  • facilitating connections to open up opportunities through local and state-wide business associations
  • promotional activities boost business visibility, recognise business achievements and increase visitation to an area
  • grants and programs to help businesses innovate and grow and to attract new private and public investment to an area
  • tailored advice and insights through council economic development teams, including about precinct development plans and other useful information
  • local area planning and upgrades to improve spaces, attract investment and make these areas work better for businesses and communities.

Business Victoria also collaborates with councils to offer free business advice across Victoria through the Small Business Bus and in-person workshops to help build business skills. Find out more about these here: Workshops and Small Business Bus.

How to connect with your council

Use the Know Your Council website to find your local council’s contact details and discover services available to businesses in your area.

Want to build a stronger connection with your local council? Here’s how:

  • Contact their business support or economic development team.
  • Subscribe to the council's business newsletter or attend an event.
  • Ask about and join business associations in your area – many connect with council to promote businesses and provide other supports.
  • See if your council is part of the Small Business Friendly Council initiative.

Get involved in improving your business precinct

Connecting with your local council can provide opportunities for you to help create places that people want to visit, work and invest in.

Ways to do this include:

  • Engage with your local council place managers.
  • Use helpful council resources to improve your business, such as the Shop Front presentation guidance provided by the Brimbank City Council and available in both English and Vietnamese.
  • Join your local business association and contribute ideas about projects that can attract more visitors and improve your local area, such as cultural festivals, business promotions, precinct marketing and infrastructure works.
  • Respond to business and other surveys so that your local council can understand what is working for businesses in your local area and work with you to plan for improvements.

For more ideas see the Good Practice Guide