A 'Docklands Dollars' voucher program, a 'Discover Kensington' pop-up store and gift cards, and an Ultimate Yarra River Staycation competition are among the creative initiatives being delivered to attract people to City of Melbourne precincts.
The City of Melbourne has provided nine recognised precinct associations with an additional $100,000 one-off payment for activation programs as part of the joint $100 million Melbourne City Recovery Fund in partnership with the Victorian Government.
A 'Docklands Dollars' voucher program from the Docklands Chamber of Commerce is open for registrations. A $100 rebate is available for two nights of accommodation, and a further $110 rebate is available for purchases in retails stores, restaurants, fast food outlets, attractions and services in Docklands.
The Ultimate Yarra River Staycation competition is now open to promote local businesses and entice people to discover attractions along the Yarra River.
The Kensington Business Association's 'Discover Kensington' gift card program rewards residents who shop close to home and encourages them to support local businesses. A March Madness competition was held in March as well as a Discover Kensington pop-up store on Saturday 13 and 27 March at 204 Bellair Street.
Campaigns and activation programs will be rolled out across all nine precinct associations:
- Carlton Inc.
- Chinatown Precinct Association
- City Precinct
- Collins Street Precinct Group
- Docklands Chamber of Commerce
- Greek Precinct Association
- North and West Melbourne Precinct Association
- Kensington Business Association
- Yarra River Business Association
City of Melbourne Councillors will this week consider the Business Precinct Program 2021-25.
The proposal includes updated guidelines and a new funding model for the program, which has operating since 1999, in order to reward robust membership and enable efficient administration. The new program would be open for existing precincts as well as other relevant incorporated trader associations to apply.
Quotes attributable to Lord Mayor Sally Capp:
"We're increasing our investment in local precinct associations so they can deliver enhanced services to local businesses," the Lord Mayor said.
"Supporting local businesses to create jobs is a key priority for the City of Melbourne and we know there's never been a more important time to invest in our precincts.
"With vouchers, gift cards and competitions on offer, everyone should take the opportunity to get out and discover all the unique and amazing experiences that can only be found within the City of Melbourne."
Quotes attributable to Business and Global Opportunities Portfolio Lead Councillor Kevin Louey:
"Small businesses make up 71 per cent of our local businesses and employ 24 per cent of our workers, so precinct associations play a vital role in helping businesses to actively work together," Cr Louey said.
"Many associations are offering discounted or free memberships in 2021 by using additional funding from the City of Melbourne and the Victorian Government to subsidise memberships.
