Launched in May 2019 by the Victorian Small Business Commission (VSBC), the initiative includes a pledge to the Small Business Friendly Charter. By signing the charter, councils agree to:

• pay small business supplier invoices within 14 days
• support local businesses in managing the disruption caused by infrastructure projects
• streamline approval processes for people looking to open a business in the area
• help set up and support local business networks.

Adding these west Victorian councils to the initiative will provide support and relief to businesses and workers across some of the area's most vital industries, including agriculture, manufacturing, construction and retail.

There are now 50 small business friendly councils across Victoria.