Council adopts plan to boost investment and jobs

Cardinia Shire Council's new Investment Attraction Plan aims to boost economic growth, create jobs, and enhance liveability by attracting businesses to the region. The plan emphasises collaboration with Federal and State governments and strategic planning to position Cardinia Shire as an attractive investment destination.

Council seeks clarity on new levy

The Cardinia Shire Council is seeking clarity and support on the new Emergency Services and Volunteer Fund levy, replacing the Fire Services Property Levy from July 1, 2025. This change is expected to significantly impact local farmers, and the Council is advocating for State Government financial support to manage the increased burden.

Strengthening Cardinia Shire’s advocacy efforts

Cardinia Shire Council has developed a range of tools and resources to support its ongoing advocacy efforts and to empower the community to lead their own advocacy endeavours.

Business Coaching Program

Local businesses are invited to join Cardinia Shire Council’s Business Coaching Program, where they can receive tailored expert guidance and personalised support from matched coaches. Participants can benefit from three free one-on-one advice sessions, offering independent and confidential insights from industry experts.

Business group support grants announced

The recipients of the 2025 Business Group Support Grants are:

• Eastern Dandenong Ranges Association: Visitor Information Map, Shopping & Community Guides
• West Gippsland Progress Association: Healthy Bodies, Food & Farming
• Lang Lang & District Business & Community Group: Group Sustainability & Governance
• Eastern Dandenong Ranges Association: Committee Governance Training & BASE Website

We look forward to seeing these groups empower local businesses and boost the economy.

Carols by Candlelight 2025

The Cardinia Shire Council is inviting businesses, business groups, and local community groups to plan and coordinate the 2025 Community Carols by Candlelight. This beloved annual event, held in December, draws around 2,000 attendees and includes carol performances, entertainment, attractions, and fireworks.

Groups can apply to host either a large-scale or small-scale event. Expressions of interest are open until 5pm on Friday, June 13, 2025.

For further details on the application process and to submit an expression of interest, please visit www.cardinia.vic.gov.au/CarolsEOI   

Better Beef and Best Wool/Best Lamb Networks Roadshow

Tuesday 3 June 2025

The 2025 Beef and Sheep Network Roadshow in Warragul will bring top industry experts to four locations across Victoria, delivering the latest insights on pastures, livestock, and farm business management.

AI in Healthcare

Thursday 5 June 2025, 8am - 10am

This session brings together Federation University's Innovation Breakfast Series and Casey City Council's DEEP DIVE 25 event series, focusing on how AI technologies are transforming key industry sectors and enhancing outcomes across Melbourne's south-east region and beyond.

Victorian Gas Users Summit

Thursday 12 June 2025, 8:30 AM to 12:00 PM

The Victorian Gas Users Summit is a free event to help small and medium-sized enterprises understand the current gas landscape, market forecasts, and practical steps they can take to manage their energy needs. 

Dry seasons and drought support

The Victorian Government has expanded the Drought Package with an additional $37.7 million in funding. Eligible farmers can access grants up to $5,000 for drought management. A Drought Response Taskforce has also been established.

CSIRO Kick-Start

The CSIRO Kick-Start program provides Australian start-ups and small businesses with matched funding and research support to develop new products, offering up to two vouchers worth $10,000 to $50,000 each.

Victorian Business Growth Fund

The $250 million Victorian Business Growth Fund is now open to support long-term growth opportunities for businesses and boost employment and economic development across the State

Co-op Placements at Federation University:

Federation University is inviting you to be a part of their students’ education so they start their careers with practical professional experience, ready to make an impact at your organisation from day one.

Federation University's Co-operative Model provides students with paid industry placements and cadetships that connect them directly with employers, creating job-ready graduates with real-world experience

Short-term counselling and coaching for apprentices

The Apprentice Employee Assistance Program offers apprentices and trainees up to 4 free confidential short-term counselling and coaching for a broad range of health and wellbeing matters.

Hiring a freelancer or consultant?

If you're thinking about hiring a contractor to help out in your business, it's important you know your legal obligations and the steps to consider when hiring

What to do when someone works for you

There’s a lot to manage when running a business, especially if you’re an employer. With the end of the financial year fast approaching, it’s a good idea to review your tax and super obligations now to ensure they’re in order.