By Olivia Condous
Melton council have given local businesses a boost by removing some trading fees from next month.
As of July 1, footpath trading permit fees will not apply with the annual fee of $110 removed.
Permits will still be required to ensure businesses comply with disability access standards and outdoor trading guidelines.
City of Melton mayor Goran Kesic said the council made the decision in order to support businesses and bolster the local economy.
“By using footpath space in front of their business, operators can attract more customers and strengthen their income stream,” Cr Kesic said.
“We’re doing what we can to help businesses generate more activity such as outdoor dining and boost the city’s economy as a whole.
“Once customers and patrons are already on the street, it encourages them to linger and browse for longer which can result in them spending more time and money in businesses than they otherwise might.
“To further encourage this activity, council supported the removal of the Footpath Trading Permit application fee.”
The Footpath Trading Permit application process will continue in order to encourage responsible footpath trading through registration and compliance requirements.
Details: melton.vic.gov.au/businesspermits
