October 2026

This month’s newsletter is packed with opportunities to help your business grow, connect and plan ahead. Whether you’re looking to build new relationships, gain practical insights, or stay ahead of industry changes, there’s something here for every business owner and operator.

From our upcoming Cardinia Business Breakfast and the launch of Invest Cardinia, to the annual Jobs and Skills Showcase, business coaching, marketing workshops, workforce initiatives and energy-saving webinars, there are plenty of ways to build your knowledge, expand your network and strengthen your business. These events and programs are designed to support businesses at every stage, whether you’re just starting out, looking to grow, or planning for the future.

Alongside these opportunities, we’re asking local businesses to take a few minutes to complete our Avian Flu (H5N1) survey, helping us better understand potential impacts on the local business community and plan appropriate support.

You’ll also find the latest grants, government updates, training opportunities and practical resources to help you navigate changing business conditions and make informed decisions. We encourage you to explore what’s on offer, take advantage of the support available, and make the most of the opportunities available to businesses across Cardinia Shire.

If you have any questions, contact the Economic Development team at business@cardinia.vic.gov.au

Local news

Join us for our Cardinia Business Breakfast!

Join us for breakfast, networking, and an insightful keynote presentation from Ryan Felsman, Senior Economist (Director), Business and Industry at Commonwealth Bank Australia.

Ryan will provide an economic forecast and insights into business conditions and the domestic and international events shaping our region’s economy, growth and investment opportunities.

Meet local businesses, industry leaders and organisations, while also getting a sneak peek at Council’s Investment Attraction Prospectus, "Invest Cardinia".

When: Tuesday 13 October 2026, 6:45am to 9am
Where: Cardinia Cultural Centre, 40 Lakeside Blvd, Pakenham
Tickets: $50 per person or $450 for a table of ten people.

Places are limited. Book now to connect with local businesses and gain insights to support your business planning.

Business events and training

Local opportunities

• Social Media and Content Marketing Workshop
  Friday 16 October from 10am to 1pm
  
  Small business owners and entrepreneurs are invited to a free workshop covering social media, content marketing and Google Business Profile optimisation.  Register to attend
   

• Small Business Bus - Pakenham
  Monday 23 November from 10am to 4pm

  The Business Victoria Small Business Bus provides advice and support for small businesses. Business advisors from Monarch Institute can help you with 1:1 tailored advice to help you start, build, or transform your small business. More information coming soon.

Business events

• Tourism East Industry Networking Event
  Thursday 8 October from 4pm to 7:30pm
  
  Join Tourism East, Cardinia Shire Council, at Gumbuya World for an evening of networking, industry insights, and new connections. Hear how Gumbuya World attracts visitors, supports growth, and plans for the future. Register on the Tourism East webpage.
   

• Tolerance to Unity Leadership Breakfast
  Saturday 10 October 2026 from 8am to 11am
  
  Hear from nationally renowned researcher, demographer and advisor Mark McCrindle as he shares data-driven insights into the changing face of our communities, emerging social trends, and how local leaders can better serve and unite their communities for the future. Bookings online

• Find out how to cut energy costs for your business
  October 22, November 5, and November 12, from 11:30am to 12:15pm

  Reduce energy costs and plan for the future with this free three-part webinar series. Join one, two or all sessions to better understand energy markets and procurement opportunities. Register now to attend.
   

• Registrations now open for Health and Safety Month 2026 
  October 2026

  Health and Safety Month returns this month with free events designed to help create safer, healthier workplaces across Victoria. Register now.

Online training opportunities

• Free online course on hiring employees
  Fair Work’s Hiring Employees Course explains the hiring process, workplace obligations, employee entitlements and recruitment tips. Complete the course to access downloadable resources, templates and links to help you hire with confidence.

• Training for small business success
  Essentials to strengthen your small business is a free online learning platform offering over 30 short courses on topics such as managing tax debt, how to successfully pay & lodge correctly, cash flow, deductions, GST, superannuation, and more.

  To complement these resources, the ATO is hosting a series of Masterclasses to help you understand the essentials of running a successful business. You can find and register for all the upcoming sessions here.

More information on events can be found on the Cardinia Business website.

Grants and assistance programs

Looking for business grants and programs? Cardinia Shire Council Grant Finder is a free tool that consolidates grants from the Australian Government, Victorian Government, and Cardinia Shire Council. Register to get email alerts for new grants, save favourites, and access application tips.

Government announcements

Workplace updates

Business operations

New licence for liquor producers
Liquor producers without a cellar door can now apply for a producer's licence, allowing sales at markets and small festivals. Get the details

Make business planning part of your success.
Behind every great business is a solid plan. Here are 6 practical tips to keep yours relevant, set achievable goals, build resilience and turn ideas into action — plus a handy 4-minute video to help you get started. Make business planning part of your success.

New tools and guidance for small business directors
ASIC's Small Business Director Essentials hub brings together practical tools, guidance and free online learning for current, new and aspiring directors. Learn your obligations and company lifecycle stages and build knowledge through practical resources and learning modules.

Find the right AI support for your business.
Thinking about AI for your business? AI Adopt Centres offer free, practical support to help you explore and trial AI solutions, with one-to-one advice, workshops and industry-specific guidance. Get hands-on support from an AI Adopt Centre 

Financial wellbeing tips for business owners
The Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman (ASBFEO) has compiled practical tips, financial wellbeing resources and support services to help small business owners manage financial stress, improve cash flow and access help during financial hardship. Read more about financial wellbeing.

Planning for online sales success
Online sale events can help you reach new customers, clear stock, and boost sales. Plan ahead to handle demand and maximise results. Get the tips!

Improving productivity in your business
Looking to improve efficiency and reduce wasted work? Learn how to spot bottlenecks, simplify routine tasks, focus on high-value activities, and build systems that help your business do more with existing resources. Read more about improving productivity in your business 

Keeping customer data safe in your business
Customer trust can take years to build and moments to lose. From customer contact details to payment information, your business may hold sensitive personal data. Discover simple actions that can help you keep it secure and maintain customer confidence. Learn about securing customer personal data

Questions? Feedback?   We would love to hear from you!
Send an email to business@cardinia.vic.gov.au or visit the Cardinia Business website.