Regional Business & Industry Programs
Regional Development Victoria supports business in developing and facilitating investment, creating jobs, and increasing the number of innovative enterprises in regional Victoria.
Regional Victoria’s economy is now more diverse and more outward-looking than ever before. ‘Traditional’ sectors, such as agriculture and manufacturing, are forging new directions. Key sectors such as education, transport, communications and construction are growing and new opportunities are opening up in emerging industries such as biotechnology and renewable energy.
Over the coming decades, regional economies will diversify even further, driven largely by global influences and conditions, generating new business and investment opportunities across regional Victoria.
Accessing regional programs and support
To help you get started or to grow your business, the Victorian Government has business offices called Victorian Business Centres (VBCs) located throughout the State. VBCs help business people access services such as government programs, licensing and registration information, referrals and more.
A range of workshops and seminars for business are also held throughout regional Victoria to assist businesses in areas such as planning, marketing, managing staff and financial management. To find a workshop near you use the Business Victoria workshops and events calendar.
You can also find out about other programs, grants and assistance for regional businesses on the Business Victoria website.
Starting a business in regional Victoria
Business owners in regional Victoria say the key advantages are:
- lower business costs
- a stable workforce
- quality transport infrastructure
- supportive planning authorities
RDV has a range of programs, services and information for businesses, small and large, who are considering starting or relocating a business to regional Victoria. RDV also provides research to help identify market gaps and emerging trends in the different regions.
More information about these opportunities can be found on the Business Victoria website or by contacting your local business centre.
Click here for a list of Victorian Business Centre (VBC) locations and contact details.
Review the various business and industry programs or use the following search tool to find out about which programs can work for you and your region:
