Our new COVID-19 Business Concierge Hotline is now available to help small businesses and organisations access support services and important business information. Lord Mayor Sally Capp said the Business Concierge Hotline will provide one-on-one advice and support to Melbourne businesses affected by COVID-19. ‘We’ve launched a dedicated phone line so small businesses can call in and find out important information about what support is available and how to access our services,’ the Lord Mayor said. ‘The newly expanded Business Concierge service is a dedicated team of people here at the City of Melbourne who can speak with small business owners directly, offer mentoring and help people through the process to apply for support.’ ‘We will also have an outreach program with Business Concierges visiting small businesses. Social distancing measures will be in place while providing in-person support. ‘It’s a very challenging time so we’re offering streamlined assistance to help businesses through this difficult period.’ Fees for some permits will be waived and businesses can apply for direct grants to help keep them trading. Councillor Susan Riley, Chair of the Small Business, Retail and Hospitality portfolio, said support was essential for small businesses and organisations in affected industries such as retail, hospitality, tourism, arts and entertainment. ‘Small businesses make up 80 per cent of Melbourne’s business community and contribute significantly to the city’s economic prosperity. These businesses are the heartbeat of our city and play a vital role in Melbourne’s economic prosperity,’ Cr Riley said. ‘The social distancing measures put in place to prioritise health and safety are extremely important, but they are also having an effect on our local businesses. ‘We have a critical window of opportunity to support local businesses through the next few months so that where possible we can reduce the economic impacts of the virus and … Continue reading COVID-19 Business Concierge Hotline for City of Melbourne businesses