Business Adviser program to assist flood-affected businesses
Wednesday 9 February 2011
Innovation, Services and Small Business Minister Louise Asher today reminded small business owners affected by the 2010 and 2011 floods that they are eligible for advice through the Victorian Government's Business Adviser program.
"The floods in regional Victoria have impacted significantly on small businesses, with main street retailers and tourism operators being particularly hard hit," said Ms Asher.
The Business Adviser program is funded by the Victorian Government and is being delivered by experienced business advisers through the Small Business Mentoring Service and the Victorian Employers' Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VECCI).
"This service is free, absolutely confidential and can provide professional advice to small businesses during this stressful time," said Ms Asher.
Business assistance may include:
- working with business owners to assess the overall impact of the floods on business viability
- support for business owners in dealing with insurance coverage issues
- investigating available government assistance
- support in handling communication with employees, customers and suppliers
- reviewing the business's financial position
- working with owners to plan the re-opening of their businesses.
"This program of one-on-one professional advice is part of the assistance available to businesses that have been affected by the floods," said Ms Asher.
Interested businesses can call the Victorian Business Line on 13 22 15 or can register online at business.vic.gov.au/floods
