Shire seeks to improve support for small business

As part of a push to increase its support for local small business, the Shire of Broome is seeking accreditation under the Small Business Friendly Local Governments initiative. 

Developed by the Small Business Development Corporation, the Small Business Friendly Local Governments initiative recognises WA local governments that are committed to actively supporting small businesses in their area.

Local governments are encouraged to sign a charter to show they have committed to work with and support small business in a range of ways including offering enhanced customer service; reducing red tape; making on-time payments; having a process in place to handle disputes; and introducing other activities to improve the operating environment for small businesses in their area.

Broome Shire President, Harold Tracey, said that signing up to the initiative and implementing its recommendations was one more way that Council could demonstrate its commitment to supporting small business. 

“Small businesses are a key to our local economy and our community, as they provide employment for local people, supply our community with essential goods and services and help make our town vibrant and attractive,” Cr Tracey said.

“As a Council we’re always looking for ways to build stronger relationships with the small business community and signing up as a Small Business Friendly Local Government is one way of demonstrating that.”  

As part of the initiative the Shire of Broome is seeking feedback from local small business on its current performance through an online survey at the link below open until 4pm on Wednesday 29 August.

Focus group sessions will also be scheduled at the completion of the survey and for more information contact Shire of Broome Community Development Projects Officer, Ingrid De Meillon, on (08) 9191 3456 or [email protected].