Monash Women's Business Network lunch FULLY BOOKED

We have seen an incredible response to our International Women's Day event with Carolyn Creswell, founder of Carman’s Kitchen based here in Monash.

Tickets are now sold out and we look forward to welcoming attendees to this exciting event in March. 

If you would like to be placed on a waiting list in the event of cancellations, please email ecodev@monash.vic.gov.au

Sponsored by PARKROYAL Monash Melbourne. 

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, 8am-9am
Where: Monash Civic Centre, 293 Springvale Road, Glen Waverley
Cost: Free, includes light breakfast
RSVP: Friday 21 February

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

Delivered in partnership with Holmesglen Institute, the Expanding Horizons initiative has made significant strides in boosting employer confidence in hiring job seekers with disability and provided comprehensive support and training to job seekers.

We're excited to share highlights from this inclusive project in future editions of First for Business. 

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

Register to be informed of Council tenders

Save time and stay up to date with Council’s latest advertised tenders by registering for our online tender portal.

It is FREE to join, and you will be notified automatically of tenders published by Council that may be of interest to your business.

Monash Community Grants: Helping Monash make a difference

Applications for our 2025/26 Community Grants Program will be open from 9am, Tuesday 28 January until 2pm, Tuesday 4 March 2025.

Last year, our grants program awarded more than $2.5m through over 200 grants to support local community groups and organisations in delivering projects, activities and events that strengthen, enhance, and benefit the Monash community. 

Program information and support sessions and workshops are also available to help applicants prepare and apply for a community grant.

ASRS Workshop: Navigating Australia's new climate reporting standards

Have you prepared your organisation for mandatory climate reporting? Join sustainability educator Mariyam Sayers, founder of kandu sustainability for a two-hour executive workshop.

This workshop provides the knowledge and frameworks your organisation needs to confidently navigate the Australian Sustainability Reporting Standards (ASRS).

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

Visual merchandising

Unlock the potential of your business with expert tips on visual merchandising! Discover how to make a stand-out shopfront, an eye-catching window display, a fresh retail space, and other tips for a positive shopping experience.

Do you sell knives?

If you sell knives in a retail setting you need to know how to store and display them safely. It is important to know key crime prevention tips and the laws around selling knives.

Retail industry Federal Budget submission

The Federal Budget is set to be handed down on 18 March and the Australian Retailers Association in collaboration with the National Retailers Association have lodged their pre-budget submission.

Highlights include a crime prevention strategy, red tape reduction, tax reform, clearer pathways for young people, investment in recycling infrastructure and investment in digital transformation.

Business Renewables Buying Group 2025: Online information session

The Business Renewables Buying Group aims to help businesses transition to 100% renewable electricity by leveraging collective buying power to reduce costs. An external facilitator will guide the group to maximise their purchasing power, while cutting the complexity, time and cost involved in going 100% renewable.

This group is open to businesses in Victoria that consume over 500mWh of electricity annually (spending approximately $100,000 per year) and have energy contracts ending in 2025 or 2026. 

Interested in transitioning to renewable energy? Or want to learn more? Sign up for the group’s free online webinar.

When: Thursday 13 February, 10am – 11am

Have your say: Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman (ASBFEO) survey

The Independent Review of the Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman (ASBFEO) is seeking further feedback from small businesses, family enterprises, the franchising sector and their representatives through a short survey.

Survey closes 31 March 2025.
 

Partners in Wellbeing helpline

Running a small business is an exciting and enjoyable experience, but it also comes with a unique set of challenges and responsibilities which can lead to stress and concern

The Partners in Wellbeing Helpline offers eligible sole traders, small business owners and their employees free and confidential support. You can speak with trained wellbeing coaches, financial counsellors and business advisers who understand your business and the unique pressures you face.

Visit the website below to find out more about this service and check your eligibility.

SEMMA and WHISE workshop: Flexible working in manufacturing

The Australian manufacturing sector is evolving, and flexible working arrangements are at the forefront of this transformation. This in-person industry forum hosted by SEMMA and WHISE will explore how flexible work can drive both operational excellence and employee satisfaction.

Discover practical strategies for implementing flexible work in manufacturing, gain insights from industry leaders, and learn how to navigate challenges while maximising the benefits of workplace flexibility.

When: Wednesday 26 February, 12pm-2pm
Where: Hilton Manufacturing, 124-130 Bangholme Road, Dandenong South
Cost: Free for SEMMA members, $100 non-members

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 – 20 February, 6pm-9pm
• Generating cash flow – 26 February, 10am-12pm
• Taking your business online – 4 March, 6pm-9pm
• Advanced strategies to taking your business online – 4 March, 10am-1pm
   

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.