As our community continues to grow, so does the need for innovative and accommodating outdoor spaces. 

To better support local businesses, the Surf Coast Shire Council has developed draft guidelines for outdoor dining and parklet spaces, and we are inviting your feedback.

In response to the evolving needs of our bustling hospitality and retail sectors, the Council has proposed new outdoor dining guidelines designed to create more vibrant and user-friendly public spaces. These guidelines aim to streamline the application process for outdoor dining areas, ensuring consistency and enhancing the overall aesthetic of our community.

Key features of the draft guidelines include:

• Simplified application process for outdoor dining permits.
• Design standards for furniture, umbrellas, and barriers.
• Requirements for accessibility and safety.
• Enhanced opportunities for businesses to use public spaces creatively.

To better understand the needs and preferences of our local businesses, we encourage you to review the draft guidelines and provide your input. Your feedback is crucial in shaping policies that best serve our community.

Submissions for the draft outdoor dining guidelines can be made until 5pm on 7 July 2024. You can review the guidelines and submit your feedback via the Council's website.

For more detailed information on the parklet initiative and to share your thoughts, visit the Your Say Surf Coast page.

Your input is invaluable as we work to create a more vibrant and connected community. If you have any questions or need further information, please do not hesitate to email us at business@surfcoast.vic.gov.au.

Let’s work together to make the Surf Coast an even better place to live, work, and enjoy.

Victorian Driver's Licences Go Digital

As part of Victoria's commitment to embracing digital innovation, the state has introduced Digital Driver Licences (DDLs) available through the myVicRoads app.

This exciting development offers numerous benefits for businesses that need to verify customer identification, helping to streamline the verification process and enhance security.

The Digital Driver Licence is a secure, convenient alternative to the traditional plastic card. It is now easier for businesses to verify a customer's ID quickly and efficiently, reducing wait times and improving overall service.

The DDL features a dynamic QR code, which refreshes regularly to prevent fraud, and displays the licence holder's details in real-time.

How to Check a Digital Driver Licence

Businesses can verify a Digital Driver Licence using the myVicRoads app and you can follow the step by step guide  by visiting the Service Victoria verification page.

The process is straightforward:

1. Open the myVicRoads app or navigate to the verification page.
2. Scan the QR code on the customer's Digital Driver Licence.
3. Verify the details displayed against your records.

Business Information Sessions

To support businesses in transitioning to Digital Driver Licences, VicRoads is offering information sessions and online resources. These sessions cover everything from the basics of using the DDL to more detailed guidance on integrating it into your verification processes.

For more details, visit the Business Information page.

FAQs and Further Assistance

For any questions you may have, VicRoads has compiled a comprehensive list of FAQs. This resource addresses common queries and provides detailed answers to help you understand the new system better.

You can access the FAQs on the VicRoads Website.

Essential Resources to Help Your Small Business Navigate Tax Season

Get Ready for Tax Time with Business Victoria's Expert Tips 

As the end of the financial year approaches, preparing for tax time can seem daunting for many small business owners. To make this process smoother and less stressful, Business Victoria has put together a comprehensive webpage packed with valuable tips and resources.

This helpful guide covers everything from organising your financial records to understanding deductions and managing your cash flow. Here are some of the key areas you'll find on the Tips to Help You This Tax Time page:

• Record Keeping: Learn best practices for maintaining accurate and up-to-date financial records.
• Understanding Deductions: Get insights into what you can and cannot claim to maximise your tax return.
• Cash Flow Management: Discover strategies to keep your business financially healthy and prepared for tax obligations.
• Staying Compliant: Ensure you meet all ATO requirements to avoid any penalties or issues.

By leveraging these expert tips, you can ensure your business is well-prepared for tax time, potentially saving time and money. Whether you are a seasoned business owner or just starting, these resources are designed to help you navigate the complexities of tax season with confidence.

For more detailed information and to access these valuable tips, visit the Business Victoria website.

Grants Roundup - Explore Funding Opportunities for Your Business

There are multiple new funding opportunities that could benefit local and regional businesses in a variety of sectors, here’s a quick roundup of some of the key grants and programs available:

Regional Tourism Infrastructure Fund (RTIF)

This fund offers three streams for tourism infrastructure:

1. Small Scale Projects: $100,000 to $1 million
2. Large Scale Projects: $1,000,001 to $5 million
3. Accommodation Uplift: $500,000 to $2,000,000

Businesses can apply for one stream. Projects must start within nine months and be completed by 30 June 2027.
Deadline: 2pm, 19 July 2024
Details: RTIF 2024

Agriculture Victoria - Distillery Door Program

Supports distilleries in increasing visitation and sales above the $350k excise threshold. Key streams include skills development, boosting the visitor economy, infrastructure improvements, and export capability.
Deadline: 5pm, 30 September 2024
Details: Distillery Door Program

Multicultural Business Chambers and Trader Groups Program

Supports projects that enhance multicultural business growth and local economic activity.
Deadline: 5pm, 17 July 2024
Details: Multicultural Business Chambers Program

Regional Events Fund

Supports regional events to drive tourism and economic activity.
Details: Regional Events Fund

DEECA - Large Energy User Electrification Support Program

Funds electrification feasibility assessments for large commercial facilities.
Deadline: 30 September 2024
Details: Electrification Support Program

These grants provide excellent opportunities for growth and innovation. To find out more about each grant use the links provided, or to search for grants that may be more suitable for your particular business you can use the Surf Coast Grant Finder.

Cost of Living Continues to Limit Spending Across the Surf Coast Region

April banking data has shown that consumers in the regions continue to alter their spending habits in response to rising household costs.

There was a total of $123.4M spent across the entire local government area in April, 4.2% up on the previous year and over 70% higher than in 2019, showing that the economy continues it's recovery Post-Covid.

Supermarkets were the top category for resident spending, accounting for $16.3M during April, while Retirees were the largest segment, representing 24.8% of spend for the entire LGA. 

Household costs have continued to rise, increasing by 13.4% compared to the same time last year, with the largest rises being seen in the cost of Insurance (up 24.2%) and Electricity, Gas and Water (up 26.1%).

With less money left over for discretionary spending April saw a sharp decrease in resident spending at Pubs and Bars (down 12.3%), Cafes (down 8.4%) and Breweries and Wineries taking the highest hit, with a reduction in spending of 18.1%.

While consumers looked for more budget friendly options, it seems staying at home was the answer, with an increase in the use of Food Delivery Services (up 16.6%), Online Entertainment (up 23.1%), and Buy Now Pay Later spending (up 33.5%).

While there are  plenty of challenges at the moment, there are also a number of opportunities for small business to take advantage of these trends, so if you are a restaurant looking to add or increase the availability of a home delivery service, or if you are a retail or home based business considering online options for sales, marketing or a website, there has never been a better time.

For more detailed information on the local economy contact the Economic Development and Tourism unit on 5261 0600 or business@surfcoast.vic.gov.au.

Local Trader Associations 

Joining your local traders group can bolster your business by expanding your network and offering invaluable opportunities to connect with like-minded professionals.

Business, Tourism and Trader groups meet across the Surf Coast Shire providing a platform to connect, share insights, and support each other's ventures. These connections not only enhance your visibility within the community but also give you access to local resources, expertise, and potential clients. Embrace the chance to grow your business by getting involved in these vibrant networks, gaining the support and camaraderie of fellow entrepreneurs.

Find your local Business, Tourism and Trader group:

Aireys Inlet Tourism and Traders Association

The Aireys Inlet Tourism and Traders Association has been actively working on behalf of the community for a number of years. It boasts a membership of over 60 traders.

When: Association meetings are held quarterly.

New members can contact:

Damien Cerantonio aireystta@gmail.com

Business Anglesea

Business Anglesea services the local Anglesea business community and membership is made up of local businesses including tourism, hospitality, retail, trades, home businesses and events. Business Anglesea provide members with networking events, workshops and activities as a point of contact to address the needs of Anglesea’s local businesses community.

When: Committee meetings are held bi-monthly, Member meetings are held quarterly.

New members can contact:

Matt Jones (President of Business Anglesea)  admin@businessanglesea.com.au

Growing Winchelsea

Growing Winchelsea is dedicated to facilitating and promoting community, business and tourism development. The group engages with and advocates on behalf the Winchelsea community, including representation with various bodies, groups and government organisations on issues affecting Winchelsea.

When: Committee meetings are held every two months. Community meetings are held 3 times a year and feature guest speakers.

New members can contact:

Elaine Atkinson (Secretary/Treasurer) secretary@growingwinchelsea.com

Commerce Torquay

For nearly three decades, Commerce Torquay has been dedicated to cultivating connections, collaborations, and prosperity within Torquay’s dynamic business landscape.
Commerce Torquay host local monthly business networking events with the events being sponsored to keep costs neutral. Commerce Torquay are preparing for their 30 year anniversary celebrations and will be launching the revamped Torquay Business Awards this year.

When: business networking events are held monthly (generally the 3rd Wednesday)

New members can contact Commerce Torquay hello@commercetorquay.com.au

Lorne Business and Tourism Association

The Lorne Business and Tourism Association represents local businesses and business interests in the Lorne area.

New members can contact info@lovelorne.com

There are also a number of online and in-person networking groups tailored to different industries and interests.

Check out the Doing business in the Surf Coast page on our website for more info.

What is the Business Concierge service?

The free Business Concierge service is designed to take the stress out of getting permits and to make the experience as smooth as possible at each stage of the process. You can submit a business proposal online or use use our Business Permit Self Assessment Tool  when you visit our website. 

Or just contact the Business Concierge directly on 5261 600 or business@surfcoast.vic.gov.au.

Also check out our FAQs about permits for businesses

Taste Great Ocean Road Campaign

Great Ocean Road Regional Tourism is launching the "Taste Great Ocean Road" campaign this winter. 

This 12-month initiative aims to highlight the diverse food and produce of our region. Whether you're a café, restaurant, brewery, or farm gate, this campaign offers a fantastic opportunity to showcase your offerings to a broader audience.

Secure your spot by June 30th, 2024, and choose from three partnership packages including:

• Entree for $250 (+ GST)
• Main for $500 (+ GST)

• Buffet for $900 (+ GST) (SOLD OUT)

For more details visit Taste Great Ocean Road or if you are interested in premium partner packages, contact Jo Birley for an appointment, on 0448 448 666 or email jo@gort.com.au.

The Surf Coast Business Collective Newsletter gives local business support information and is published by the Economic Development & Tourism Unit of the Surf Coast Shire Council.