For information and resources to help your business prepare a COVIDSafe Plan visit the Business Victoria website here
https://www.business.vic.gov.au/coronavirus-covid-19/covid-safe-business/covid-safe-plan#creatingacovidsafeplan
COVID 19 - Impact on Business
Council’s Economic Development and Tourism team is reaching out to our local business community via phone, email and online survey to better understand the impact COVID-19 is having on business operations and ways Council can help.
Business owners can complete an online survey at any time by visiting the following link Colac Otway COVID-19 Local Business Survey. Within the survey, you can sign up to receive regular communications from Council on the latest COVID-19 information and funding support, or you can request a call back from the Economic Development and Tourism team.
Rates Assistance
Colac Otway Shire Council is urging community members experiencing difficulties to seek financial assistance under relevant Federal and State government assistance (https://treasury.gov.au/coronavirus).
Council is anticipating that businesses and households will be worried about their potential inability to pay their rates because of reduced business income or reduced or lost employment, as a result of the COVID-19 situation.
Council has reviewed its normal procedures regarding rates collection.
Ratepayers who are unable to make payments will not be charged interest (we will review this situation before June 30) and will not be referred to debt collection.
However, to avoid the debt collection process, ratepayers must contact Council to discuss any outstanding rates, payment options and alternative arrangements.
Please visit Council's Rates Assistance page for more information.
Cafes and Restaurants
The latest information for Cafes and Restaurants on stage 3 restrictions is available on the DHHS website.
Food Businesses - Information for offering take-away from your food premises
For an update on State Government restrictions as at 16 September 2020 as they apply to cafes and restaurants, please download this pdf.(PDF, 170KB)
Personal Services (beauty therapists, tattooists, tanning salons, nail salons, spa and massage services)
The latest information for Personal Services can be found on the Coronavirus - Information for Beauty-Based Businesses page.
Find out about current assistance and support available from State and Federal Government here.
Colac Otway Shire's Economic Development and Tourism Unit have developed a range of business, arts and events grants. This Grants Program information can be read here.
Business Victoria
The Business Victoria website has advice, updates and support to help workplaces plan and respond to coronavirus Covid-19. Phone the Business Victoria Hotline to help you with coronavirus questions 13 2215.
Australian Government Business
Business.gov.au has information on financial assistance, eligibility and timing for the new government support for Australian businesses.
Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VECCI) and Colac & District Chamber of Commerce and Industry
Business and workplace information, including fact sheets and key contacts.
Great Ocean Road Regional Tourism
Victoria Tourism Industry Council