Incentives and grants (business)

Applications for funding for COVID Safe outdoor activations have now closed and are currently being assessed.  Applicants will be notified of the outcome of their application shortly. 

Council has developed and implemented a number of support services for existing businesses and have identified the need for incentives that will create employment opportunities in the shire.

By creating a minimum of five new full-time jobs (or part time equivalent) businesses can now apply for a discount on rates.  Eligible business can save up to $2,500 per year, depending on the number of new jobs created.

Please review the information below and if you believe you are eligible for this program and would like to view the legal agreement, please complete the below form and a member of the Economic Development unit will contact you.

Rate discount criteria

The rate rebate is conditional upon the business owner complying with Council requirements and meeting the criteria below:

• The business must be in the Macedon Ranges.
• These must be new jobs and the equivalent of permanent full time hours e.g. a full time position is constituted by a minimum of 28 hours plus per week.
• All Council rates and municipal charges or levies must be up to date.
• The business must be able to provide payroll or pay as you go documentation as submitted to the Taxation Office to demonstrate that the positions are retained for the period of the rate rebate.
• If the business premises are leased and the business owner is not responsible for payment of rates, the business is still eligible for a rate rebate and can apply. As the rate rebate will apply to the landlord, it is up to the tenant (business owner) and landlord to enter into a separate agreement.

To discuss this program further, call Danni Findlay, Business Development Officer on (03) 5421 9617 or email dfindlay@mrsc.vic.gov.au

Register for the Rates Incentive Scheme

Grants and other funding programs are available from the Federal, State and Local governments to assist with activities such as expanding your business, research and development, innovation and exporting.

Business.gov.au

Helps you find the grants and assistance programs most relevant to your business.  Visit the Business.gov.au website which also includes AusIndustry information.

Grants and Programs finder

If you are doing business in Australia, visit Grants and Programs Finder to find out what you may be eligible for.

Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning

Delivers the Living Victoria Water Rebate Program that provides Victorian small businesses with an opportunity to reduce operating costs and water efficient products. Visit Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning website.

Regional Development Victoria

Supports business in developing and facilitating investment, creating jobs, and increasing the number of innovative enterprises in regional Victoria. Visit Regional Development Victoria website.

Business Victoria

Provides information and access to financial support, advice, education and training programs to help you improve your business. Visit Business Victoria website.

Sustainability Victoria

Provides funding for a range of projects and initiatives. Visit Sustainability Victoria website.

Export Victoria

Support, funding and assistance for businesses that are exporting or thinking about exporting. Visit Export Victoria website.