August 2024

Welcome to the latest edition of the Cardinia Business Newsletter! 🌟

Discover the newest updates from the Cardinia Shire Council for businesses in this issue. Learn how to feature your information in our venue database, explore the revamped Casey Cardinia Jobs Portal, and get listed in our business directory.

Explore a variety of engaging workshops designed to enhance your business skills. Topics include marketing strategies, social media tactics, and effective business planning. Secure your spot at these valuable workshops today.

Stay informed about recent government grants, changes in casual employment regulations, and diverse business support services.

Stay up-to-date with government announcements covering cyber security measures, instant asset write-offs, energy-saving tips, and innovative ways to promote your business effectively.

Please don't hesitate to reach out to our Economic Development team should you have any questions. You can email them directly at business@cardinia.vic.gov.au

Local news

Do you have a space or room to book?

We are always looking for new spaces to host our meetings, workshops, and events. Do you believe that your business may have a space that could be a perfect fit for our needs?

We would like to know more about your venue and the possibilities for booking it. Please take a few minutes to fill out this form and provide us with detailed information about your space.

Submit details

Casey Cardinia Jobs Portal

Free recruitment solution for local businesses.

Local businesses now have a powerful new tool at their disposal with the revamped Casey Cardinia Jobs portal.

This easy-to-use online system offers a smart and cost-free way to recruit quality local staff, streamlining the hiring process and fostering community growth.

Submit a job

What's On Cardinia Business Hub?

Is your business listed on our Business Hub?

The purpose of the 'What's On Cardinia Business Hub' is to highlight you and your business, enhance your visibility, and provide our community with a great resource to discover local businesses.

Click the link to register and add your listing to our Business Hub.

Add my business

Footpath Occupancy Permits

Footpath trading, including outdoor dining, enhances the appeal of Cardinia's townships. Business operators require a permit for A-frame signs, outdoor dining setups, displaying goods, windbreakers, bali flags, and umbrellas to maintain safe footpath access.

Power Up Program

The Power Up Program in Cardinia Shire provides designated power outlets for recharging electronic mobility chairs or scooters. Apply for a business sign to enjoy benefits like enhanced accessibility, safety, inclusivity, disability awareness, and attracting more customers.

If your business is interested in being part of this program, please contact us on 1300 787 624 or accessandinclusion@cardinia.vic.gov.au

Updates on the Pakenham Roads Upgrade

There are significant updates on the Pakenham Roads Upgrade, with progress being made on the McGregor Road upgrade, including the opening of the new northern lanes and the completion of the Henry Road intersection.

There are temporary traffic changes in place while the southbound lanes and Webster Way intersection are being constructed, with detours in place for drivers traveling to and from the Princes Freeway. The Heritage Shopping Centre remains accessible and open for business, and in late August, sections of Healesville-Koo Wee Rup Road and freeway ramps will be closed at night to facilitate the shift in traffic to the newly constructed lanes. All lanes on Healesville-Koo Wee Rup Road south of the freeway are expected to open in August as part of the Healesville-Koo Wee Rup Road Upgrade.

For more information and updates on these projects, individuals are encouraged to visit the Pakenham Road Upgrade and Healesville-Koo Wee Rup Road Upgrade pages or contact Major Road Projects Victoria.

We encourage you to share this information with staff, suppliers, customers and other visitors to minimise disruptions, and subscribe online at roadprojects.vic.gov.au/subscribe for updates on both projects or by texting HKWR and PKHM to 0499 073 073

Boost your business workshops

Boost Your Business Workshop: Marketing Basics

Tuesday 3rd September 2024
Cardinia Cultural Centre
9.30am to 11.30am

During this workshop, we will explore the essential elements of successful marketing for your business. Whether you are an experienced entrepreneur or a beginner, you will acquire valuable insights across various areas.

Book now

Boost Your Business Workshop: Social Media

Tuesday 29th October 2024
Cardinia Cultural Centre
9.30am to 12.00pm

In this interactive workshop, you will gain practical insights and skills to enhance your social media presence.

Book now

Boost Your Business: Business Plan Accelerator Workshop

19th & 20th November
Toomah Community Centre
9.00am – 3.30pm

The 2-day workshop will help you understand the critical components required for business success and tailor a specific plan to each individual business’ situation.

Book here

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

Employment news

Changes to casual employment start in August 2024

There are multiple changes to casual employment laws coming into effect this year from Monday 26 August 2024.

These include:

a new definition of a casual employee.
a new pathway for converting employees from casual to permanent employment.
an updated Casual Employment Information Statement (given to all new casual employees).

Learn more

Available grants

Energy Resilience Community Fund

The Ausnet Energy Resilience Community Fund's first round is currently accepting grant applications. The fund offers three grant programs:

1. Major Grants - $50,000 to $500,000
2. Energy Resilience Grants - $5,000 to $50,000
3. Energy Education and Literacy Grants - $5,000 to $50,000

For detailed information on grant guidelines, inclusions, and eligibility criteria, please visit the provided link below.

More information

Agricultural and Pastoral Society Grants Program 2024–25

In 2024–25, the Victorian Government has made available funding of up to $300,000 under the Agricultural and Pastoral Society Grants Program. The program is available to support agricultural and pastoral societies to stimulate community involvement across Victoria in activities that promote agriculture.

Victorian Aboriginal Business Investment Program

The Victorian Aboriginal Business Investment Program offers grants to Aboriginal businesses in Victoria to help sustain or grow their operations. Businesses can apply for grants ranging from $5,000 to $100,000 for activities such as training, mentorship, marketing, and expansion projects.

Learn more

Business support

Partners in Wellbeing

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.

Learn more

Ahead for Business

Ahead for Business is digital hub designed to support the wellbeing of small business owners.

Through the Ahead for Business digital hub small business owners can access tailored resources, connect to the online community and track your mental health and wellbeing journey.

Learn more

Free Business Advice

Business Victoria and Monarch Institute offer free virtual business advice sessions for Victorian businesses. Get expert guidance on marketing, staffing, finances, and more in a 45-minute session.

Virtual advice sessions are available Monday to Friday 9am to 7pm and can be undertaken virtually or via phone.