We're passionate about nurturing our local business community. Our Economic Development department continuously develop programs and opportunities to support and grow your business. Discover some of the great initiatives currently available.
The Vacant to Vibrant program aims to address retail vacancy issues across the municipality by facilitating short-term commercial agreements. This is done by connecting property owners and real estate agents with local start-ups, social enterprises, artists or not-for-profit organisations.
Multiple vacant retail premises in local shopping precincts has the potential to reduce public safety and amenity. It has also been found to increase the incidence of criminal activity including tagging, bill posting, graffiti and vandalism of private property and community assets.
Retail shopping strips are a part of the fabric of local communities. They are generally operated by local people providing much needed goods, services and support to the communities they serve.
Under the Vacant to Vibrant initiative we are working with stakeholders to provide local communities with vibrant, active shopping precincts that are friendly, welcoming areas.
Watch the video to find out more
The special rate scheme aims to improve viability and drive economic development within local shopping precincts. This is done through focused marketing and promotional initiatives.
Under the scheme, every property owner within a defined geographical area is levied a special rate. This contributes to a pool of funds and a business plan to improve commercial viability through marketing and promotional activity.
The combined effect of these activities contributes to:
- reduced vacancy rates
- improved shopping precinct image and branding
- better communication businesses
- improved patronage
- ongoing liaison with Council.
Requests for a special rate scheme are initiated by a local precinct business association. It is Council's role to ensure compliance with the requirements of the Local Government Act 1989 in relation to us declaring, levying and operating a special rate scheme.
The visitor economy is considered nationally in the top five sectors of economic growth. It has potential to become Australia’s fastest growing industry.
Strengthening the visitor economy is an important contributor to the City of Whittlesea’s social, cultural and economic vibrancy and prosperity.
We actively supports the visitor economy, working in partnership with key industry stakeholders, northern region councils and local businesses to further boost this priority industry.
Our clear direction for tourism development and growth within the City of Whittlesea is to increase tourism visitation, length of stay and yield.
As part of that, we produce dedicated visitor economy marketing collateral including digital and print promotions. To discuss the marketing opportunities available to visitor economy businesses, contact our tourism services officer at info@whittlesea.vic.gov.au or call 03 9217 2170.
Tourism organisations and resources
We are excited to announce the Next Level Growth (NLG) Program for up to 20 businesses, kicking off in 2025. This eight-week, personalised program of business education, coaching and mentoring is funded by the City of Whittlesea and delivered by 25eight, award nominated for delivering programs that create economic impact.
The program is aimed at providing small and medium business leaders with the knowledge, skills and confidence to help them take their business to the next level. You start with an idea of what you want to achieve, and end with a solid and actionable growth plan, deeper insights into your market and enhanced clarity on exactly what you need to do to get results.
Expressions of Interest (EOI)
EOIs are now open and will close at 11pm on Sunday 13 April 2025.
Submit your EOI
Key dates
See NLG Program Terms and Conditions(PDF, 314KB)
Selection criteria
Businesses will be selected based on the following criteria:
- commitment to the completion of the program
- commitment to the in-person session dates
- enthusiasm and passion for growing their business
- the growth potential of their business.
Session details
Session details:
Session 1
- Week 1 – Wednesday 14 May 2025: 2-hour in-person workshop
Session 2
- Week 2 – Wednesday 21 May 2025: 1-hour in-person workshop
Session 3
- Week 5 – Wednesday 11 June 2025: 1-hour in-person workshop
Session 4
- Week 8 – Wednesday 02 July 2025: 1-hour in-person workshop
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