Surf Coast Shire Council is rolling out new business support initiatives following a Business Insights Survey about their priorities and challenges in a post-pandemic economy.
The survey found that business confidence had declined compared with pre-COVID levels despite more than 70 per cent of businesses indicating they were in a better or similar position than last year.
Councillor Joel Grist said the survey found that the top three challenges for local business owners were rising costs, staffing and housing affordability, and government and council regulations.
“Businesses are an integral part of the Surf Coast community, with over 4,000 employers and 12,500 workers,” he said.
“We heard that the Surf Coast is desirable for businesses because of its natural beauty, relaxed work-life balance, and supportive atmosphere. It’s important we retain these attributes.
“We want to see a thriving, connected business environment, and we want to support the economic growth of the community. The survey was useful to see how council can work towards this.”
Mr Grist said a key focus of the survey this year was to learn more about the businesses and region’s environmental sustainability initiatives.
“Some concerns from survey respondents have already been addressed, including tree pruning and street cleaning,” he said.
“There’s also some work to do on suggestions raised around increased commercial space and parking, and how our main streets look.”
Council has also launched a Build Better Business program of free workshops in response to the survey. Visit surfcoast.vic.gov.au/BetterBusinessSkills for more information.
