Book now to celebrate International Women's Day with Monash Women's Business Network

Celebrate International Women’s Day with Monash Women’s Business Network and Carolyn Creswell, founder of Carman’s Kitchen based here in Monash.  

Be inspired by Carolyn’s story and learn about:

• Carolyn's journey from small business owner at the age of 18, to leading a multinational brand that exports to over 30 countries.
• Maintaining business growth and work-life balance.
• Being an employer-of-choice and creating employee-friendly workspaces.

Open to everyone from the business community, Monash Women’s Business Network events are your gateway to valuable connections, education and learning opportunities.

Sponsored by PARKROYAL Monash Melbourne. 

When: Tuesday 4 March 2025
Networking: 11.30am - 12pm | Lunch: 12pm - 2.30pm
Where: PARKROYAL Monash Melbourne, 872 Blackburn Road, Clayton
Cost: $70 (includes two-course lunch)
RSVP: Close of business Monday 24 February 2025

CSIRO SME Connect: Access R&D support for your business growth

Discover the full potential of CSIRO's SME Connect program for your business by joining us for an informative in-person session with Dr Angela Wu, SME Program Facilitator.

Uncover how three programs—Kick-Start, The India Australia Rapid Innovation Start-up Expansion (RISE) Accelerator, and Innovate to Grow—can provide the support, funding and expertise you need to expand your business.

When: Wednesday 26 February 2025, 8am-9am
Where: Monash Civic Centre, 293 Springvale Road, Glen Waverley
Cost: Free, includes light breakfast

Free service design workshop for Allied Health

Discover how to design services that delight your clients and grow your business during this free 90-minute interactive workshop. Tailored for allied health small business owners, this session will guide you through:

• Identifying what your customers truly value.
• Redesigning your services to boost client retention and recurring revenue.
• Taking actionable steps to simplify operations and maximise impact.

Sign up to learn practical strategies to create meaningful change and achieve sustainable growth.

When: Monday 17 March 2025, 10am-12pm
Where: Waterman Clayton, M-City Shopping Centre, Level 1, 2107/2125 Dandenong Road, Clayton
Cost: Free

Spaces are limited. Please RSVP by COB Friday 7 March

ATO Masterclass series

We've partnered with the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) to offer masterclasses designed to strengthen your small business knowledge.

During these free online sessions, you will have the opportunity to speak with experienced tax officers, ask questions and gain insights tailored to your business needs. 

Starting a small business
Tuesday, 25 February 2025 | 12pm - 1pm

Fringe benefit tax
Tuesday, 25 March 2025 | 12pm - 1pm
 

Expanding Horizons: Overcoming barriers for employment

The Expanding Horizons project advocates for job seekers with disabilities by promoting diversity and inclusion to employers as the foundation of innovation and business success.

Inclusive employers are committed to creating workplaces where everyone feels valued and empowered to contribute their unique perspectives. They actively promote equal opportunities, provide necessary accommodations, and foster a culture of respect and belonging.

By celebrating diversity, inclusive employers drive positive change within their communities.

For more information, please contact Michelle.Bloch@monash.vic.gov.au

Victorian Economic Growth Statement

The Victorian Government’s Economic Growth Statement, released in December 2024, aims to boost economic growth and simplify business operations. It focuses on five key sectors that will drive future growth and job creation:

1.  Advanced manufacturing and defence
2.  Health technologies and medical research
3.  Circular economy
4.  Digital technologies
5.  Agribusiness

The Statement also outlines actions to unlock economic potential.

Join a Monash Council Advisory Committee

Expressions of interest are open for the following Council advisory committees:

• Disability Advisory Committee
• Gender Equity Advisory Committee
• Environmental Advisory Committee
• LGBTIQA+ Advisory Committee
• Multicultural Advisory Committee

Advisory committees play a vital role in providing Council with advice on a range of matters including how to improve social issues for Monash’s diverse communities and improve outcomes for the environment.

Members offer community insights, share their experiences and give feedback on the work of Council.

If you’re a resident or part of a community group that is passionate about making a meaningful contribution to the lives of other people in Monash, we want to hear from you!

Applications close 11.59pm, 9 February 2025.

How clear is your 2025 small business plan?

Join marketing strategist Tina Manolitsas at Eastern Innovation's February Entrepreneur Exchange event for a workshop on refining your business strategy via a 90-day action plan.

This is a comprehensive networking and professional growth evening. Gain clarity, simplify your strategy, and set your business up for sustainable growth in 2025. 

When: Thursday 6 February 2025, 6pm-8pm
Where: Eastern Innovation, 5A Hartnett Close, Mulgrave
Cost: $17.50

Navigate Australia's new climate reporting standards

Australia's transition to mandatory climate-related disclosures marks a significant change for organisations.

This executive workshop, led by sustainability educator Mariyam Sayers, founder of kandu sustainablity, offers the knowledge and frameworks your organisation needs to confidently navigate the Australian Sustainability Reporting Standards (ASRS) requirements.

When: Thursday 20 March 2025, 6pm-8pm
Where: Eastern Innovation, 5A Hartnett Close, Mulgrave
Cost: Free

Cutting red tape for hospitality businesses

The Victorian Government is simplifying how businesses apply for liquor licences and permits as part of its Economic Growth Statement.

From 1 July 2025 hospitality businesses won’t need to apply for planning permits to serve alcohol. This will reduce time and potentially save businesses up to $7,000.

Follow your local Traders Association

The City of Monash has three active and funded trader associations that undertake marketing, management and business development to encourage commerce, trade and employment in their centres.

Follow them via their website or socials to get a feel of what they do and support your local activity centre.

Clayton Traders Association
Website    Facebook    Instagram

Glen Waverley Traders Association
Website    Facebook   Instagram

Mount Waverley Traders Association
Website     Facebook    Instagram

Federal election priorities for the Australian Retailers Association

With a Federal election set for 2025, the ARA has set its key priorities. These include boosting consumer and business confidence, growing the retail workforce through training and flexible policies, and addressing challenges like retail crime and cyber security.

Golf ball recycling: New life for old golf balls

Monash Council and Notting Hill business Golf Ball Recycling (GBR) have set up collection points for old golf balls at Glen Waverley Golf Course, Oakleigh Golf Course and the Recycling and Waste Centre.

Since May 2023, over 12,000 golf balls have been recycled at these collection points. These balls can be repurposed for things like golf course bridges and stormwater pit lids, which are being trialled at Mount Waverley Primary School.

Monash Industry Experience (IE) program

Monash University is offering a free 14-week Industry Experience Program for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), pairing final-year IT students with businesses to develop custom IT solutions. The next round starts in February 2025.

SMEs interested in being part of the program can complete the expression of interest form, and the IE team will reach out with details for their two online presentation sessions:

• Wednesday 22 January, 5pm - 6pm
• Wednesday 5 February, 1pm - 2pm
   

Monash businesses benefiting from Manufacturing and Industry Development Fund 

Monash-based businesses have benefited from significant upgrades, supported by the Victorian Government’s Manufacturing and Industry Development Fund.

Tibaldi has completed a $10 million expansion at its Clayton site. MTM Automotive located in Oakleigh South is investing in new equipment and assembly lines to manufacture products for global automotive giants. ParagonCare has opened its new global headquarters and blood manufacturing facility in Mount Waverley. These three initiatives will create more than 150 new jobs.

Stay informed about all State and Federal funding opportunities relevant to your industry by creating a profile in the Monash Grants Finder.

Walk for Waverley fundraiser: Walk today, transform tomorrow

With a location in Notting Hill, Waverley Social Enterprises is a for-purpose organisation that provides people with disabilities with inclusive and meaningful employment opportunities in a supported work environment. 

In March, it is launching a fundraising campaign to Walk for Waverley, inviting businesses and individuals to get moving, fundraise and build a more inclusive future for people with disabilities, one step at a time. 

Express your interest today and be the first to know when registrations open in February.

Preparing businesses for high-risk weather season

Is your business prepared for extreme weather? As the high-risk weather season continues, including increased bushfire risk, resources are available to help you stay informed and respond quickly.

Taking the time to plan and prepare for disasters can minimise the risk of impact and disruption, minimise losses and support recovery. Stay on top of the latest warnings by bookmarking VicEmergency – available on any browser – or downloading the VicEmergency app – available on Apple or Android devices.

Business Victoria: Online workshops, courses and mentoring

Looking to start, grow or take a fresh look at your business? You can register for a short course or webinar or access a FREE online business advice session from an expert.

Free business mentoring for Monash businesses

Monash Council works with the Small Business Mentoring Service to provide eligible local business owners with access to up to four FREE one-hour sessions with an experienced business mentor.

Email ecodev@monash.vic.gov.au if you are interested in accessing this service.