Women's Business Network Lunch: Achieving productivity in risky times

Join us for a great networking opportunity and to hear from Dr Catherine de Fontenay from the Productivity Commission.

Catherine will outline how businesses can use new approaches to borrowing, hiring and networking to boost innovation and productivity in risky times.

When: Tuesday 21 May, 11.30am-2pm
Where: Riversdale Golf Club, Mount Waverley
Cost: $70 (includes two-course meal)
RSVP: Tuesday 14 May 2024

Please note that this is an all-inclusive event.

Congratulations to Monash Business Awards nominees

The first four nominees for the 2024 Monash Business Awards (MBA) were announced at the February MBA breakfast.

In this month's First For Business e-news we highlight two more of these nominees.

ShowBiz Cinemas Waverley fosters a community hub by delivering a beloved independent cinema experience. Led by Managing Director Andrew Taylor, this cinematic gem has breathed new life into the Waverley Pinewood Cinema through exceptional customer service since its takeover in May 2023, ensuring the continuation of an independent cinema tradition that is cherished by locals.

Jaybee Square Wheelers Square Dance Club is more than just a dance club; it's a vibrant community located in Notting Hill dedicated to promoting fun, wellbeing, and social connectivity through the timeless art of square dancing. Under the guidance of key contact Lorraine Davey, this club provides a safe and social activity for all age groups, keeping them active and involved in the community.

Readiness and Employment Access Channel (REACH)

Expanding Horizons is an exciting two-year initiative aimed at building employers' confidence and capacity to recruit job seekers with disability. The project is delivered by Monash Council and Holmesglen Institute. 

As part of the Expanding Horizons initiative, Holmesglen is proud to launch Readiness and Employment Access Channel (REACH).

Within the framework of REACH, Holmesglen will offer a series of professional development short courses to employers free of cost.

These short courses are designed to enhance employers' ability to understand, navigate and harness the advantages of an inclusive workforce.

ICN Gateway for supply chain solutions

The ICN Gateway serves as a hub for businesses seeking service and supply contracts across Australia and New Zealand.

Delivered in partnership with the Victorian Government, the platform is free to list on, with the ability to set up business profiles and notifications of relevant projects.

ATO Essentials to strengthen your small business

There is a lot to know when it comes to operating a business. The Australian Tax Office (ATO) makes it easy for you to learn all the business essentials you need to know.

Through their quick, convenient online courses you could upskill in areas such as record keeping, cash flow, deductions, GST, super, and more. Learn on your own terms, in your own time.

Start now to help your small business thrive.

Google Business Profile website shutdown: what small businesses need to know

The shutdown of Google’s Business Profile website service from 5 March 2024 brings major changes for small businesses worldwide. Google’s announcement only affects websites made using Google Business Profile.

If you have used this service, you’ll need to create a new website and update your Google Business Profile.

If your website is impacted by the change you have until Monday 10 June 2024 to create a new website and update your online presence, including any Google Ad campaigns to direct to your new site. During this time, Google will automatically redirect people who visit your old website.

For more information on how this may impact your business, please visit the Business Victoria website.

Paid parental leave increases to 22 weeks this year, 26 weeks in 2026

The Paid Parental Leave scheme currently provides families up to 20 weeks of payment for a child, with 2 weeks reserved for each parent in a couple.

Under the amendments in the Paid Parental Leave Amendment (More Support for Working Families) Act 2024, from 1 July 2024, 2 weeks of payment will be added to Parental Leave Pay each year to 2026. This will increase the overall length of the Paid Parental Leave scheme by 6 weeks from July 2026.

Parents and employers can find out more about Paid Parental Leave, including the eligibility requirements, the current rate of payment and how to apply, at the Services Australia website.

CSIRO invests $20 million to drive SME innovation 

Australia’s national science agency, CSIRO, has announced a $20 million investment to provide small to medium enterprises (SMEs) with greater access to vital research and development (R&D) opportunities to accelerate their growth.

The funding will allow CSIRO’s SME Connect team to support up to 750 SMEs through a range of programs and initiatives that provide facilitation, training, dollar-matched funding and support to start-ups and SMEs seeking to engage in company-led research projects.

SEMMA State Nominated Skilled Visa Information session

South East Melbourne Manufacturers Alliance (SEMMA) is partnering with the Skilled and Business Migration Program (SBMP) at the Victorian Government’s Department of Jobs, Skills, Industry and Regions (DJSIR) to host an in-person information session on state nominated Skilled visas.

Local businesses and employers who are interested in retaining or recruiting migrant employees are invited to attend the session.

When: Thursday 2 May, 10.30am-12pm
Where: 5 Hillcrest Grove, Springvale

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.

• Maximising Your Marketing – 30 April, 10am-1pm
• Taking Your Business Online – 9 May, 6pm-9pm
• Winning Government Grants & Tenders – 14 May, 6.30pm-8.30pm
• Advanced Strategies to Taking your Business Online – 15 May, 10am-1pm
   

Free business mentoring for Monash businesses

If you are a local business located in the City of Monash, you are eligible for up to four FREE one-hour mentoring sessions with an industry expert. Email ecodev@monash.vic.gov.au if you are interested in accessing this service.

Online shopping days in 2024

Have you planned your sales campaigns for 2024? To ensure you are not left behind, keep track of when, where and why your business should be running sales throughout the year.

The following article also has 8 tips to improve your business. Don’t miss out on another sales day this year.

Eastern Innovation Business Centre

Do you want a professional workspace where you can cultivate connections and grow your business?

New space has opened at Eastern Innovation Business Centre. Located in the heart of Monash, this innovation hub is dedicated to empowering entrepreneurs and businesses to become serious industry players.

Workstation desks, offices, meeting rooms, labs and virtual offices are all currently available.

Contact Eastern Innovation Business Centre today!

Monash businesses save thousands through Business Energy Savers program

Local businesses save thousands of dollars every year with energy efficient upgrades with support from Monash Council.

Register your interest with the Business Energy Savers team for free advice and trustworthy quotes. Read how local business SOM Blinds were able to install a 10kW system and saved $2400 per year.

Monash business Hyzon Australia's collaboration for the greener future of transportation

Located in Noble Park, Hyzon Australia is working with ICN Victoria to transform the transport and logistics industry. By leveraging ICN Victoria’s networks and government connections, Hyzon Australia can garner local government support, aiding the state’s shift to a low-carbon economy.

Since setting up operations in Australia in 2021, Hyzon Australia has been manufacturing heavy-duty vehicles that run on hydrogen fuel cells instead of traditional fossil fuels. These vehicles emit only water vapor as they operate, making them a key player in the push towards achieving net-zero emissions.