ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT QUARTERLY
civic, business and waterfront precincts focused on
tourism, arts, food and services.
LIVING CITY has created new jobs in the food
and beverages sector, arts and video production
& construction sectors. The Waterfront Precinct
is next to be developed, with construction of a
privately built hotel and a public parkland. LIVING
CITY has generated a new sense of excitement and
momentum with a clear vision for the City’s future.
economy. The program offers an annual budget of
$90,000 and provides considerable support to
applicants.
www.livingcitydevonport.com.au/
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
INITIATIVES – OVER 15,000
RESIDENTS
This award recognises programs or projects that
have stimulated economic development activity
in larger council regions. A diverse range of
initiatives are included, from retaining and growing
existing businesses, boosting investment raising
employment opportunities and more.
WINNER
CITY OF ONKAPARINGA
ON Business Small Grants Program
Winners receive, not only a financial boost,
but promotional, networking and educational
opportunities, far exceeding the grant amount.
This is designed to strengthen business acumen,
reputation, resilience, and customer base.
www.onbusinesspartnerprogram.com/
membership/small-business-grants
FINALIST
MELTON CITY COUNCIL
The Hot House Project - putting a fire in the belly
of the start-up business community
The “Hot House Project” was designed to uncover
and enrich opportunities for City of Melton residents
with a start-up business idea.
Participants’ concepts are nurtured, networks
developed and skills and knowledge improved to
help move the idea to viability.
44 people successfully completed the program and
transitioned into Council’s other business support
programs with two participants already nominated
for a Business Excellence Award.
www.melton.vic.gov.au/Services/Business/The-
Hot-House-Project
FINALIST
CITY OF GREATER GEELONG
A regional approach for sustainable agribusiness
The ON Business Small Grants Program is an arm
of the ON Business Partner Program, administered
by the City of Onkaparinga to build a strong local
In 2017, the City of Greater Geelong partnered
with Regional Development Victoria and the G21
Geelong Region Alliance to develop an agribusiness
strategy supporting the growth and development of
this sector.
VOL.12 NO.3 2019 | 14