Community
18 July, 2024
Popular funding stream now open
APPLICATIONS have opened under a popular Moyne Shire Council program.
The fifth instalment of the annual Business Facade Improvement Program is now open for applications.
The program offers $50,000 for matched dollar-for dollar-grants up to $5000 for eligible businesses to support the improvement to their business façade.
The program aims to enhance the appeal of the local streetscape within commercial and shopping areas of the shire.
The program is open to any business located in a commercial or township area which has street frontage or a permanent business façade which is readily visible from major highways.
Moyne Shire Council mayor Ian Smith said the popular program was an important part of council’s business support package.
“Through this program we are helping businesses and building owners to give their premises a bit of a spruce up,” he said.
“This also helps enhance the overall appearance of our streetscapes.
“Whether it’s a fresh coat of paint, new signage or a new verandah and windows, we encourage all business operators and property owners to take up this opportunity to spruce up their facade.”
Last year, council allocated funding to 17 businesses across the shire.
Previous allocations have seen businesses such as The Mount Shadwell Hotel, the Mortlake Post Office, Clarke’s Pies and Aberlea, Mortlake Deli Fresh Café and Mortlake Motorcycles and Mowers all receive a facelift.
Works can include repainting of business façade and windows, installation or upgrade of signage, renewal of under-awning lighting or streetscape lighting, repairs or replacement of verandahs, cleaning of existing frontage and limited interior improvements if visible from the exterior.
Applications to the latest round of the fund must be lodged with council before Monday, September 16.
Preference will be given to small businesses with fewer than 20 full-time employees,
but larger businesses are eligible to apply.
More information on eligibility and how to apply can be found online at www.moyne.vic.gov.au/facade or by calling council’s economic development team on 1300 656 564.