Application Guidelines
Funding Available
Council has allocated $30,000* grant funding for the 2023/24 program. Businesses can apply on a $1: $1 basis to complete improvements to their facades with the grant amount capped at $5,000 (incl. GST) per business.
As an example, for a project with a total cost of $10,000 (incl. GST:
- Business provides $5,000 (incl. GST)
- Council provides $5,000 (incl. GST)
Businesses can choose to contribute more than 50% of the total project cost, but will still only be eligible for a maximum of $5,000 (incl. GST) from Council.
If a business only wanted to complete minor works, they could apply for an amount under $5,000. An example of this would be for a project with a total cost of $2,000 (incl. GST)
- Business - $1,000 (incl. GST)
- Council - $1,000 (incl. GST)
*Council contribution is subject to the number of applicants and funding requested verse the total budget allocated to the program.
Application Guidelines
The Business Façade Improvement Program will assist Moyne businesses to improve their business façade that will improve the appeal of the local streetscape within the commercial and shopping areas of the Shire.
Council will competitively allocate funding to successful businesses on a matched funding basis of up to $5,000.
Applications will close on 22 September 2023.
Program Details
The Business Façade Improvement Program creates an incentive for Moyne businesses to undertake façade improvements that will improve the local streetscapes, encourage capital investment in the town centres and support business development and success.
Achieving these goals will ultimately strengthen the relationship between Council, commercial building owners and business operators.
Applications will be assessed on a case-by-case basis subject to Council approval.
Eligible Works
Façade restoration works eligible for consideration include the following:
- Repainting of building façade and windows;
- Installation/upgrade of the business signage;
- Renewal of under-awning lighting, streetscape lighting; or awning structure;
- Repairs or replacements of verandahs;
- Cleaning the existing façade and removal of cladding or redundant material; such as signage, air conditioning units or hoardings;
- Reinstatement of lost elements, or fabric to the façade of the building;
- Limited permanent interior improvements, if these are visible from the exterior;
Eligibility Criteria
The following eligibility criteria apply:
The program is open to any business located in a commercial/township area of the Shire that has street frontage, OR, any business located in the Shire with a permanent building façade that is readily visible from a Transport Zone 2 Road (see map). Home based business or businesses with no street frontage are not eligible.
The applicant must be a Moyne based business or a property owner that leases to a Moyne based business.
Property owners with a vacant building in Moyne, that intend to lease to a Moyne-based business, are eligible to apply.
Businesses must be registered for an ABN. Property owners without an ABN must complete the ATO ‘Statement by a Supplier’ form as part of their application.
Preference is given to small businesses, which employ fewer than twenty Full Time Equivalent (FTE) staff members, however larger businesses are eligible to apply.
The proposed works cannot include structural works for a building listed in the heritage overlay.
Only works that improve the overall look of the business façade from the main thoroughfare will be considered. Interior works, or works to other areas of the building will not be considered unless they are clearly visible from a public area with significant passing traffic.
Successful applicants from previous rounds of the Business Façade Grant are eligible to apply only if they have fully acquitted the grant process.
Council reserves the right to approve or refuse an application based on colour, material or method of execution as it considers appropriate.
Funding Available
Council has allocated $30,000 grant funding for the 2023/24 program. Businesses can apply on a $1: $1 basis to complete improvements to their facades with the grant amount capped at $5,000 (incl. GST) per business.
As an example, for a project with a total cost of $10,000 (incl. GST:
- Business provides $5,000 (incl. GST)
- Council provides $5,000 (incl. GST)
Businesses can choose to contribute more than 50% of the total project cost, but will still only be eligible for a maximum of $5,000 (incl. GST) from Council.
If a business only wanted to complete minor works, they could apply for an amount under $5,000. An example of this would be for a project with a total cost of $2,000 (incl. GST)
- Business - $1,000 (incl. GST)
- Council - $1,000 (incl. GST)
Application Process
Property owners or business operators considering making an application must discuss their potential project with a Council officer through its Business Support Service. This will ensure any potential issues are managed early and all planning requirements can be met. The Business Support Service can be accessed through:
1300 656 564;
ecodev@moyne.vic.gov.au;
Applicants are also encouraged to seek professional advice from suitably qualified local architects or designers to assist with the development of the proposed improvements.
How to Apply
Applicants can complete the Application Form for Moyne Business Façade Improvement Program including all associated documentation, on Council’s website.
Applications are open from 24 July 2023 to 22 September 2023.
Applications received after the closing date will not be accepted.
Program Documents
The following documents must be provided as part of an application:
A clear description of the works with an itemised list of all proposed works.
At least two quotes from local contractors (where possible). If only one quote can be obtained, please communicate with the Economic Development team as your application may still be considered.
Signed consent from the property owner (where applicable).
Photographs showing the existing façade/ building condition.
A planning permit may be required for the proposed works and all applications must adhere to planning guidelines and consent. The planning permit process, if required, can run concurrently with the grant application.
Assessment of applications
All applications will be assessed in alignment with these guidelines.
Applications that meet the program criteria will be presented for Council decision.
Outcome of Applications
All applicants will be notified of the outcome of their application following the decision of Council.
Successful applicants will be sent the following:
- Confirmation letter
- Funding Agreement
- Financial details form
The Funding Agreement must be signed and returned within 10 business days of the issue date. Council reserves the right to withdraw acceptance should the letter not be returned within this timeframe.
Completion of the Improvement Works
The proposed works are to be carried out as per the detailed proposal and the Funding Agreement.
- All works must be completed by 31 May 2024 (unless otherwise approved).
- Once works are completed, the applicant is to advise Council in writing.
How to Claim the Grant Amount
To claim the grant amount, the applicant must submit the following documents:
- All project receipts, as proof of works/purchases. Only invoices from a business with a valid ABN will be accepted.
- Photographs of the completed works.
- An invoice from their business stating ‘Business Name – Claim for Moyne Business Façade Grant’.
- Completed Supplier Details / Account Payable form (Provided to successful applicants).
Council will inspect the works undertaken to ensure they have been completed in accordance with the Agreement. Funding will only be released once this is confirmed. All claims must be submitted by 30 June 2024.
Terms and conditions
1. The applicant is to submit a completed application form, including all required supporting documents.
2. Works are to be carried out in accordance with all Council statutory requirements, the relevant building design guidelines and the relevant heritage guidelines of the town.
3. Council will not release funds for works where a planning permit is required but has not been granted.
4. If painting is part of proposed works, a proposed colour palette will need to be submitted to Council as part of the application. The proposed colour palette will need to be approved by Council Officers before commencing work.
5. Only one grant application can be lodged per business/individual shopfront; however, a combined application involving two or more businesses is permitted.
6. The applicant must provide a minimum of 50% of the cost of the project, or higher if 50% of the costs of works exceed Council’s maximum grant contribution of $5,000 (inclusive of GST).
7. The Applicant must be able to fund the costs of the works upfront. Council will provide the grant funding only after the works are completed.
8. The applicant must provide proof of all purchases and works before being able to access Council funding.
9. The applicant is to enter into an agreement with Council that will list the agreed schedule of works and grant amount (inclusive of GST). Works should not commence until the applicant has signed the agreement with Council
10. Council will not grant funds retrospectively; to any works completed before the approval of the application.
11. Council will not provide funds for:
a) Operation or administrative costs.
b) Business marketing or promotion.
c) Capital expenses (including ladders, gurneys, scaffolding and safety barriers etc.).
d) Any overrun in costs. Extra funds will not be granted.
12. A further incentive for Fee Reduction and Waivers may apply to the Planning fees as part of the Small Business Incentive Scheme.
13. Works should be undertaken by a local contractor wherever practicable.