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Have A Say On The Future Direction Of Small Business Policy The Victorian Coalition Government is inviting small business owners, operators, advisers, industry groups and other interested parties to have their say on the future direction of small business policy and services in Victoria. By Russell Northe - 4th October 2011 - Back to News Nationals Member for Morwell and Parliamentary Secretary for Small Business Russell Northe has announced the release of a Small Business Victoria Discussion Paper which canvasses policy, program and service initiatives across Government and asks for formal feedback on the issues and challenges facing the small business sector.
Mr Northe said the Coalition Government recognised the vital role Victoria’s 495,000 small businesses played in contributing to approximately 30 per cent of the State’s production and nearly half of its private sector employment.
"Small businesses are also a vital element of Victoria’s regional economy, with 28 per cent of all small businesses based in rural and regional areas.
"The Victorian Coalition Government is committed to supporting small business and individual initiative and creating an environment that rewards those who work hard, save, invest and create employment.
"This discussion paper identifies some of the challenges facing small businesses and asks for feedback on how the Coalition Government may be able to assist.
After considering submissions, the Government intends to release a formal Small Business Statement that will outline the policies, programs and services that it will use to help guide small business development and growth.
"The Small Business Victoria Discussion Paper and subsequent Small Business Statement will provide an opportunity for constructive debate about ways the Coalition Government can meet the needs of small businesses into the future.
To obtain a copy of the Small Business Victoria Discussion Paper please contact Small Business Victoria on 13 22 15.
For further information visit http://www.business.vic.gov.au/BUSVIC/STANDARD/PC_64438.html
Media: Russell Northe 0408 22 55 23 / Julia Auciello 5133 9088
Source: www.gippsland.com Published by: news@gippsland.com
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Darren Chester joined the East Gippsland community for National Police Remembrance Day in Bairnsdale, honouring Victoria Police officers who lost their lives and recognising those who continue to serve. - South Gippsland immunisation sessions extended with extra times to support community after Leongatha Healthcare Centre closure
Following Leongatha Healthcare Centre closure, immunisation sessions have been extended, offering full-range vaccines for children, adults, pregnant women, and at-risk groups, with extra times available for community bookings. - East Gippsland Water warns dry conditions require following permanent water saving rules to protect community and future supply
East Gippsland Water urges residents to conserve water amid drying conditions, following Permanent Water Saving Rules to protect supplies, reduce pressure on catchments, and maintain community health and safety. - Darren Chester quits shadow ministry, vows to keep fighting for Gippsland and regional Australia
Gippsland MP Darren Chester has resigned from the Coalition shadow ministry but says he remains committed to representing Gippslanders and regional Australians in Parliament despite political tensions over legislation proposed. - Join Omeo's visitor economy through tourism mapping and justice precinct masterplan vision sessions on 14 September 2025
Omeo visitor economy's future will be shaped through community sessions presenting the Tourism Ecosystem Mapping Report and Draft Justice Precinct Masterplan, highlighting heritage, recreation, and opportunities to attract investment. - Join the conversation and help shape South Gippsland and other council projects, programs and initiatives
Join the conversation this spring! Share your ideas on South Gippsland's future through community consultations, including Pre-Prep, Draft Plans, Governance Rules, and the 2026/27 Budget. - Danny O’Brien warns Gippslanders to stay alert as fake government email and text scams increase
Danny O’Brien urges residents to stay vigilant against sophisticated government-themed email and text scams, verify messages using Scam Safe Check, and report suspicious activity to protect the community. - Latrobe City launches investment campaign showcasing strength, innovation, and opportunities across Gippsland
Latrobe City Council launched an investment campaign showcasing business strength, innovation, and opportunities positioning itself as Gippsland's hub for growth, transformation, and future industries. - Danny O'Brien criticises Labor's police station maintenance cuts despite backflip restoring partial funding for grounds upkeep
Danny O'Brien has criticised Labor's partial backflip on police station maintenance cuts, saying Gippsland officers deserve safe, clean workplaces and stronger government support amid rising regional crime rates. - CFA faces critical staffing shortages in Gippsland as Labor government fails to act before dangerous fire season
A new report reveals serious CFA staffing shortages in Gippsland, with vacancies, fatigue, and leadership gaps risking slower responses this dangerous fire season. Labor must act urgently. - Glen Eira Sports and Aquatic Centre (Glen Eira Leisure) claim fourth consecutive victory at 2025 Life Saving Victoria Pool Lifeguard challenge
Glen Eira Leisure won the 2025 Life Saving Victoria Pool Lifeguard Challenge for the fourth consecutive year, excelling in rescue, emergency response, and team-based competitions against 23 Victorian aquatic teams.
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