Tuesday, 17 September 2019

Business owners in the Latrobe Valley, or those considering starting businesses, can now access a free, flexible and confidential tailored support service thanks to the Andrews Labor Government.

Member for Eastern Victoria Harriet Shing MP today launched the Business Support Service, brought to life by the Labor Government through the Latrobe Valley Authority’s $50 million Economic Growth Zone.

The Business Support Service is a new pilot program, which will see a team of local Concierges based at the Latrobe Valley Authority, Latrobe City, Wellington and Baw Baw Shire Council offices.

The expert team of concierges are available to help local businesses navigate the services on offer and follow up to ensure they are getting what they need.

The new program will connect businesses with a range of services by partnering with government departments and organisations, including:

• GROW Gippsland
• Rural Financial Counselling Service
• Kinaway Chamber of Commerce
• GippsTech
• AusIndustry
• Victorian Small Business Commission
• Small Business Victoria
• Small Business Mentoring Service
• Victorian Chamber of Commerce
• Regional Development Victoria.

The future look of the Business Support Service will be shaped by feedback from local business owners/operators during the pilot program.

For more information on the Business Support Service visit lva.vic.gov.au or contact the Latrobe Valley Authority, Latrobe City Council, Baw Baw Shire Council or Wellington Shire Council.

Quote attributable to Member for Eastern Victoria, Harriet Shing MP

“This collaboration between all levels of government and local organisations will provide an integrated service for local businesses across the region to access the support, information and assistance they need to thrive.”

“Programs like this are indicative of our determination to help organisations and government departments to better connect and collaborate for the benefit of our local economy, community and shared future.”

Quote attributable to Latrobe Valley Authority CEO Karen Cain

“Our local team of Business Support Service Concierges are providing a highly tailored, joined-up approach to help businesses connect and leverage opportunities they may not have been aware of.”