Planning continues for business attraction incentives program

Published on 10 December 2025

At the November Council meeting, Council endorsed a Notice of Motion to explore potential business attraction incentives aimed at strengthening the vibrancy and growth of the Footscray CBD.

In response, a report was prepared, outlining the specific actions requested through the Notice of Motion and assessing them in the context of Council’s existing business support programs. The report also examines additional measures that could help attract new businesses and improve economic activity within the Footscray CBD.

As part of this work, Council has carefully considered the proposed nine-month pilot program, which sought to waive selected Council fees and charges and introduce fast-tracked approvals for new businesses. The report identifies several challenges and risks associated with implementing the pilot program immediately, including financial impacts, equity considerations, and operational constraints. The report concluded that a responsible, well-designed approach is essential to delivering long-term and effective outcomes.

Given these factors, Council resolved to continue the detailed scoping and analysis rather than proceed with immediate implementation. Work to further refine the potential incentive options and address the identified challenges will continue before a comprehensive report and recommendations are presented at the February Council meeting.

Mayor, Cr Mohamed Semra said it is vital that Council takes the time to ensure the right foundations are in place.

“We want to make sure any incentives we introduce are meaningful, effective and truly encourage new businesses to choose the Footscray CBD,” said Mayor Semra. “By taking a little more time now to consider all the implications, we can design a program that delivers real benefits for local traders, investors and our community.”

This next stage of work will help ensure that new businesses are meaningfully encouraged to establish in the Footscray CBD and that any incentive program is equitable, effective, and aligned with Council’s broader strategic objectives of revitalising Footscray.

Maribyrnong News

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