THE East Grampians Business Awards are back and Greater Ararat Business Network is again delighted to be a sponsor of this fabulous celebration of regional businesses. You have until next Tuesday (August 30) to nominate your favourite local business in one of eight categories.

These annual awards recognise organisations that demonstrate achievement and excellence in business and innovation and have become the benchmark of quality that businesses aspire to attain. This year has seen the introduction of two new categories - Outstanding Customer Service Award, and Home-Based Business Award. Applications are open to all businesses, small or large, rural or CBD based, operating within the Ararat municipality. To nominate your favourite local operator visit www.ararat. vic.gov.au today.

Employing Mature Age Workers

The Australian Government has launched a new program designed to support businesses in employing mature workers. Restart, is a financial incentive of up to $10,000 (GST inclusive) to encourage businesses to hire and retain mature age employees who are 50 years of age and over. Wage subsidies up to a maximum of $10,000 may be available to businesses that hire eligible individuals into ongoing jobs. To find out how your business can employ a mature age worker visit www.dese.gov.au.

Small Business Ventilation Program - Closing Soon.

The Business Victoria Ventilation Grant enables eligible public-facing businesses to invest in projects to improve ventilation. Currently there is support available for small projects up to $500 as a rebate or for large projects with matched grants of up to $5000, but applications will close at 11:00pm on Thursday 8 September. For more information visit business.vic.gov.au.

For the Calendar

August 30th

The ever popular GABN Zoom Call returns on August 30th at 8.00am. Join us with your morning coffee, stay up to date and reconnect with your local business community. Invitations are emailed to all GABN members and guest speakers. If you are not yet a member you can join by visiting the Membership page on our website.

September 9th

Join us for the first Networking Business Breakfast of 2022. Held in conjunction with Ararat Rural City Council guests will have an opportunity to listen to a panel of guest speakers, catch up with like-minded business owners and enjoy a great breakfast. What a fabulous way to start your day. Book your seat today by RSVP to pcairns@ararat.vic.gov.au.

If you are considering becoming a member of GABN or would like to know more about our upcoming events please contact us on email admin@gabn.org.au.