Bass Coast Shire Council is offering local businesses and service providers rebates of $2000, to improve the appearance of their shopfronts and building facades.

Council recently received funding from Regional Development Victoria, which will fund a Shopfront Improvement Rebate Program, to provide funding for up to 25 businesses.

Bass Coast Shire Mayor, Cr Brett Tessari said that vibrant and attractive streets, shops and public spaces play an important role in creating prosperous town centres.

“Due to the ongoing impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on our local business economy, the Program will not require matched funding from successful applicants,” Cr Tessari said.

Some examples of the works that can be completed as part of the program include:

• Shopfront displays
• External signage
• Painting of the shopfront/façade
• Minor repairs to structural façade elements, awnings and verandas
• Installation of store lighting visible from the street
• Improvements to accessibility

To be considered for a rebate, business owners first need to review the Shopfront Improvement Rebate Program guidelines and then submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) via email (300 words) to business.support@basscoast.vic.gov.au.

Once an EOI has been received, the Business Support Team will work with the applicant on their proposal. Once the rebate criteria is met, they will be formally invited to apply through SmartyGrants.

The Business Support Team will be able to accept EOIs until Wednesday, 10 November to enable enough time for feedback. Applications will close on Sunday, 14 November and successful applicants will be notified between 22 and 26 November.

For further details, visit www.basscoast.vic.gov.au/shopfrontrebate or contact Council’s Business Support Officer, Joanne Tomasi on 0438 895 124 or email business.support@basscoast.vic.gov.au.