Welcome to the first Hobsons Bay Business e-Works update for 2022.

As noted in our last e-Works newsletter, Council has received state government funding to provide additional COVID related support and advice to businesses in the first half of 2022.  As such, a new COVID Business Help team has been established and the team is already hitting the streets and visiting businesses around Hobsons Bay. The team will speak with business owners checking in on what COVID-related information is required and sharing information on COVIDSafe practices, tools, tips and tricks. Say hello to Marco, Sue, and Ayush!  

Current restrictions require hospitality and indoor entertainment businesses to maintain one person per two square meters density as recommended by the state government.  With restrictions changing regularly, we recommend keeping an eye on the 'How we work: Victoria' and relevant sector guidance pages on the state government's Coronavirus website.

The COVID Business Help team also regularly update the COVID-19 section of the Hobsons Bay Business website to provide businesses with easy access to COVID related information and support.  

If you aren't already a member, join the Hobsons Bay Business Network Facebook group for business related news and information and to connect and exchange valuable information with fellow business owners. 

Business ratepayers impacted by COVID-19 whose turnover has reduced by 20 per cent can apply for up to a 25 per cent reduction of their 2021-2022 rates (maximum of $10,000).  

This offer applies until 30 June 2022, or until the budget allocation is exhausted. 

To review eligibility requirements for businesses and to apply, visit the Hobsons Bay City Council website. 

A new, free support for businesses to prepare and review their COVIDSafe plan has been launched by the Victorian Government.

One hour information sessions for businesses are being held:
  • Tuesday 1 February at 2pm
  • Thursday 3 February at 10am
  • Tuesday 8 February at 2pm 
  • Thursday 10 February at 10am
Businesses can register for the sessions at https://forms.office.com/r/yHUajkas0j 

Did you know that small businesses and community organisations can get rebates and extra free support to reduce running costs through the Small Business Energy Saver Program?

The program offers significant discounts to upgrade to energy efficient equipment that in some cases may cover up to 100% of the full equipment and installation cost.

Current upgrades being offered include: 
  • replacing inefficient gas or electric hot water systems
  • upgrading to efficient room reverse cycle air-conditioners
  • installing energy efficient refrigerator display cabinets
  • installing energy-efficient fridges and freezers 

To find out more or take up the offer, please refer to the Hobsons Bay Business website before June 2022.

As part of Victoria’s Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) roadmap, funding has been established to encourage the use of ZEV technology by providing grants to applicants to pilot and/or trial ZEV technology. 

To explore the implementation of ZEV technology and whether your business is eligible visit the Department of Transport website.

As the state continues to respond to the current wave of COVID-19, the Victorian Government has announced they will be extending the Commercial Tenancy Relief Scheme until 15 March 2022.

Find out more at the Victorian Small Business Commission website.
All events below are subject to change given current uncertainty. In the event that COVID-19 restrictions do not allow for these events to be held in person, they will either be moved online or postponed.  Businesses registered to attend the events will be notified of any changes as soon as possible.  Please register in advance so that we can keep you informed of any last minute changes.
Council invites business professionals from across Hobsons Bay to come together for the Discover Your Own Backyard Coffee Connect business networking series.  This is a great opportunity to enjoy a coffee, promote your business and share ideas while meeting business owners from a range of different industries.  

Given the current level of COVID-19 cases, this event will be held outdoors - please dress for the weather.  

Wednesday 02 February from 7.30am to 8:30am 

Chapter One
8 Eames Street
Brooklyn

RSVP's essential: To register and view future events visit Hobsons Bay Business.
Business Victoria, in collaboration with Monarch Institute are offering this live workshop to help you improve your operational activities in a way that can help immediately improve your cash flow.

Thursday 17 February from 9am to 11am 
Online workshop 

To register visit Hobsons Bay Business.

To dive a bit deeper and complete the full online module in your own time visit Business Victoria.
Whether you're planning, starting or growing your business, the Victorian Government's Small Business Bus can help you to develop your business ideas and capabilities.
Business advisers offer free 45-minute sessions and can help you to identify a clear direction for your business, discuss key issues and priorities, and develop a business action plan to achieve your goals.

Monday 14 February from 10am to 4pm 

Central Square in front of the laundromat
Near the entrance off Merton St
Altona Meadows 3028

To book a session visit Business Victoria.

It's official - Start, Now is back in 2022!

Start, Now is the LaunchVic-funded pre-accelerator program that helps you turn your startup idea into reality.

Make 2022 the year where you give it a crack while being supported by expert mentors, and a community of like-minded individuals pursuing their dreams.

Find out more at nowdoit.com.au or apply here!

The Partners in Wellbeing Helpline is a free, confidential service offering small business owners and their employees one-on-one access to trained wellbeing coaches, financial counsellors and business advisors. Call the Partners in Wellbeing Helpline on 1300 375 330 for assistance between 9am to 10pm on weekdays and 9am to 5pm on weekends. A live chat function is also available on the website. 

For a list of other resources available visit the Mental Health in Business webpage.