$900,000 in funding will be allocated to select City of Melbourne precincts to support local businesses, with the long-term goal of increasing local tourism.
The Council’s Business Precinct Program provides annual funding for precinct associations to create opportunities for business networking, education, training, and growth, as well as overall initiatives to encourage local visitation and spending.
Business Precincts have played an important role in generating activity over the past 12 months, including Easter and school holiday activations in Kensington, retail-focused activations in Collins Street and cultural events in the Greek Precinct.
Ten precinct associations will receive grants of up to $90,000 this financial year:
- Carlton Inc
- City Precinct
- Melbourne Chinatown Association
- Collins Street Precinct Group
- Docklands Chamber of Commerce
- Greek Precinct Association
- Kensington Business Association
- Melbourne City North Business Association
- North & West Melbourne Precinct Association
- Yarra River Business Association
Council acknowledged the Melbourne Chinatown Association was a new association being funded for the first time as it rolls out a range of new events and activities.
Melbourne Lord Mayor, Sally Capp, said Council will continue to work closely with these precinct associations to leverage their energy and passion and support their programs.
“Precinct associations play a vital role in bringing business owners together to share ideas, build connections, and encourage spending in local neighbourhoods,” Mayor Capp said.
Business and Global Opportunities portfolio lead Councillor Kevin Louey said the Business Precinct Associations are an important forum for local traders to meet, exchange ideas, promote their business and connect with Council.
“We’re recognising their invaluable work through our Business Precinct Program – providing funding to ensure they can continue to thrive and stimulate economic activity in every corner of our municipality,” Cr Louey said.
