The Deakin University Geelong Business Excellence Awards are a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the outstanding achievers of the local business community-the entrepreneurs and innovators, the professionals and pioneers, who have found success through their willingness to have a go.
Each of them represents the very best of our nation-everyday Australians getting up early, taking risks and working hard to realise their aspirations.
Through their achievements, each is creating opportunities for themselves and their families, as well as driving greater prosperity and fairness for our country.
The spirit of entrepreneurialism and innovation is alive and well in Geelong. Over the last five years, the number of businesses has grown by over 15 per cent, and employment by 20 per cent.
During this time, the Government has provided funding through programs such as the Advanced Manufacturing Growth Fund to support the development of industry in Geelong.
My Government is also backing Geelong and the Great Ocean Road regions through the Geelong City Deal. Together with the Victorian Government and the City of Greater Geelong, we will deliver $370 million in investment to support continued economic diversification, growth of the visitor economy and development of a thriving city centre.
Congratulations to all nominees for the 2019 Business Excellence Awards who are contributing so much to the growth and future prosperity of Geelong.
