Business tools

Small Business Victoria is a great source of information for businesses in Mitchell Shire. Visit Business Victoria website to access tools such as how to set up a business, how to market better and what you need to know when hiring staff, plus many more.

Networking is vital for all businesses. Networking includes business-to-business (B2B) networking, connecting with a local chamber of commerce, discovering news customers, connecting with local government or other organisations.

If you're looking to enter into a lease agreement, make sure you read the Retail Lease Checklist (PDF download) first.

The Victorian Small Business Commission (VSBC) provides and efficient and low cost small business dispute resolution service.

Please read more about the service they provide on the VSBC website.

To better manage your business through disruptive infrastructure projects, read the Guide to Managing Disruption (PDF download) published by the Victorian Small Business Commission.

Mitchell Shire Council and Nexus Primary Health together with a number of partnering organisations have developed a Good Access is Good Business toolkit to assist business owners to make their business and premises more accessible.

Copies can be obtained at any of our Customer and Library Service Centres or by contacting Council's Community Development department — phone 03 5734 6200 or email community.development@mitchellshire.vic.gov.au

You can also request a free business visit to work through the toolkit.

Statistically 1 in 5 people have a disability including difficulties with mobility, sight and hearing. There are also many non-physical, less visible disabilities that make up this substantial figure. For business owners, this means 20% of their potential customer base could be lost through not offering an accessible premises or services.

Working through relevant compliance regulation can be challenging, particularly in a tenancy setting where extensive building works may not be feasible. However, there are many minor and low-cost changes that can make a significant difference.

Below are just a few of the simple steps businesses can take to improve their accessibility for all members of the community:

• clear aisle space
• considered placement of fixtures, furniture and EFTPOS terminals
• appropriate lighting
• low volume background music
• clear, plain language menus