Business Concierge and permits Geelong co-working and flexible workspaces Grants and funding Grow your business Networking Permits and regulatory legal requirements Product development Start your business Training and development
The City of Greater Geelong’s Investment and Economy team are here to help you every step of the way. Whether you’re exploring an idea, setting up your first venture, or looking for the right location, we can guide you through permits, regulations, and business planning essentials.
We’ll also connect you with local workshops, mentoring opportunities, and trusted resources to help you build a strong foundation. With our support, you’ll have the confidence and tools to turn your business idea into reality right here in Geelong.
Business Concierge and Permits
Our Business Concierge team is a great place to start when you’re new to business. You can get assistance in determining if permits and regulations are required from Council and learn about what resources are available to help start your business in Greater Geelong.
Contact our Business Concierge Service.
Business Support Drop-in Sessions
Our free Small Business Support Drop-in Sessions are held across the Greater Geelong region and are a perfect place to receive face to face expert advice and guidance.
You can book a 25-minute one-on-one appointment for tailored support or simply drop in anytime during the day to chat with our friendly Investment and Economy team.
Our team can assist with navigating council permits and compliance, discovering programs and resources, and identifying opportunities to help your business thrive.
Whether you’re taking your first step or planning your next move, these sessions are designed to make starting and growing your business easier.
Jump back to the Business Calendar on our home page to book your spot.
Business support resources
There are a range of State and Federal Government organisations, resources, and support programs available to help you start a business, with some of the key providers listed below.
Provide comprehensive support, information, and tools to help businesses at every stage, from starting and registering, to growing, managing, or exiting.
They cover key areas including:
- Planning & Registrations – business plans, ABN, business names, licences, and structures.
- Finance & Legal – bookkeeping, pricing, raising capital, and compliance.
- Marketing & Digital – strategies, eCommerce, online sales, branding, and social media.
- People & HR – recruitment, workplace safety, staff management, and wellbeing.
- Risk & Resilience – disaster planning, cyber security, protecting assets, and sustainability.
- Industry & Community Support – Aboriginal business programs, construction regulations, and tailored advice.
- Tools & Opportunities – grants and funding finders, adviser and event directories, templates, and training.
- Both platforms also provide the latest news, updates, and resources to help businesses stay informed, connected, and equipped for success.
Visit: Business Victoria
Visit: Business Australia
The Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman (ASBFEO) provide support, guidance, and advocacy for small businesses and family enterprises, helping them navigate challenges, access resources, and understand their rights and responsibilities.
From starting a business to tax time essentials, resources, tool and services to support small business.
The Australian Taxation Office also offer a range of self-paced training courses for all stages of business.
LaunchVic is Victoria’s startup agency that help new and growing businesses succeed.
They offer funding programs, mentoring, and connections to investors and experts to help founders launch and scale their ideas.
LaunchVic also works to strengthen Victoria’s startup community and create more opportunities for innovation and growth.
The Self-Employment Assistance delivered by APM Employment Services here in Geelong, helps people set up, grow, and develop their own small business.
Part of Workforce Australia, it offers free, tailored support including business idea workshops, business planning, accredited training, coaching from experienced local experts, and ongoing mentoring for 12 months.
Existing business owners can also access business health checks, advice sessions, and training to strengthen their operations.
To find out more about the Australian Government funded program view here: Self-Employment Assistance program.
The Victorian Small Business Commission (VSBC) helps small businesses across Victoria with advice, dispute resolution, and advocacy.
Whether you need guidance on leases, government interactions, or other business challenges, the VSBC is here to support you.
Looking for an adviser not listed above?
Use the Australian Government's Adviser Finder, which includes over 600 organisations to connect you with the support you need.
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