Strategy to support local businesses

Published on 23 July 2025

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Moyne Shire Council’s successful 2019-2024 Economic Development Strategy (EDS) has highlighted its commitment to support local businesses and grow the local economy.

Highlights from the 2019-2024 EDS include:

  • Establishment of the Economic Development Advisory Committee (EDAC), a group of local business representatives that provide strategic guidance to Council on economic priorities and investment attraction.
  • Business Adaptation Service created, connecting local businesses with expert advisors.
  • Moyne’s Business Façade Improvement program introduced, delivering improved shopfronts and commercial streetscapes through its townships.
  • The “Love Local” Awards, celebrating local businesses as voted by the community and encouraging local spend.
  • Key Worker Housing projects in Koroit and Mortlake Caravan Parks saw five cabins in each location installed for essential workers.
  • Commerce Moyne established, supporting cross-sector business collaboration.
  • Work and Play campaign provided subsidised accommodation to summer hospitality workers, which helped businesses attract staff for the busy summer period.
  • Make it Work initiative provides discounted caravan park site fees to nomadic workers who gain work locally.

Economic growth figures, based on the gross revenue generated by all businesses and organisations in Moyne Shire, show real growth of 23% from 2019 (2.88 billion) to 2024 (3.54 billion), an extra $660 million. The average statewide growth over this time was 17%.

Delivery of EDS actions has supported Moyne’s economic growth and facilitated Moyne’s recovery from the pandemic.

At its July 2025 meeting Council endorsed its new 2025-2029 Economic Development Strategy action plan that aligns with current economic conditions and emerging opportunities.

The new EDS is informed by independent research and analysis, as well as consultation with industry representatives, local businesses, residents, Council and Government stakeholders.

Mayor, Cr Karen Foster said respondents emphasised the need for sustainable tourism, better transport and healthcare access, and efficient energy systems.

“Striking a balance between economic development and the wellbeing of both the environment and community was a key priority,” said Cr Foster.

“The new EDS has identified 47 projects to guide Council in continuing Moyne Shire’s economic growth, that fall under five key themes,” she said.

Theme 1: A leading food and fibre industry – to increase the competitiveness of food production and processing.

Theme 2: Strategic and targeted investment attraction – to support major infrastructure and business investment opportunities to achieve economic growth outcomes.

Theme 3: A prosperous, engaged and skilled community – to establish Moyne Shire as a destination of choice for residents and workers, through provision of local services, affordable housing, infrastructure, transport and workplace support.

Theme 4: An innovative and dynamic business base – to build business capacity to support the development and growth of local businesses.

Theme 5: A high-value visitor economy – to foster the growth of the Moyne visitor economy though unique and leading experiences that attract a range of target markets.

“We look forward to reporting annually on the progress of the new EDS,” said Cr Foster.

Download the EDS.

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