Growing Central Highlands businesses receive incentive boost

Two growing Central Highlands businesses have received a welcome boost thanks to Central Highlands Regional Council’s Regional Economic Development Incentive (REDI).

Game field depot TAILS Agma received a 100 percent refund of development application fees and a 40 percent refund of development infrastructure and plumbing fees.

Daniel Ellerton from TAILS Agma said the REDI application was an easy part of his development and he would recommend it to other businesses.

‘I think it’s a great incentive and the REDI application went through quicker than I thought under current circumstances,’ he said.

‘When I first started, I didn’t think I would be eligible for anything so of course I’m happy to receive the support.’

He said the upgraded facility will be one of the highest standard field game depots in Queensland with increased capacity, efficiency and ergonomics for suppliers thanks to mechanical aids.

‘It will be there for decades to support the industry.’

Central Highlands engineering firm H.E.M.E Pty Ltd also received a REDI stimulus to expand its spray-painting operations with a larger building and the potential to accommodate more staff.

Mayor Kerry Hayes said that both developments reflect the strength of two key Central Highlands industries, mining and construction and agriculture, and its economy.

‘Council is committed to continuously improving its services and encouraging sustainable economic development,’ he said.

‘Our REDI packages support business developments that create regional economic growth, capital investment and ongoing job creation.

‘Current economic circumstances create a lot of uncertainty for businesses everywhere, and while REDI doesn’t specifically relate to the pandemic, businesses who are in the position to grow are encouraged to apply.’

Mayor Hayes said that as with any development, council understood that the business owner still had to jump through the many hoops of development and contribute a significant investment on their behalf.

About REDI

Central Highlands Regional Council’s Regional Economic Development Incentive (REDI) supports and attracts economic development to all parts of the region. REDI incentives may include rates remission, reduction or elimination of fees and charges, time schedule for fees and charger or joint marketing and promotions. REDI applications are considered on a case-by-case basis and must demonstrate the following minimum assessment criteria:

Be consistent with council’s vision, mission and values. Be in accordance with council’s planning scheme. Have no significant negative environmental impact. Provide significant net economic and community benefit to the Central Highlands’ region equivalent to a minimum of five times the dollar value amount of the incentive applied. Have a minimum capital investment of $500,000; or in the case of a start-up, a minimum of three full-time equivalent jobs created. These must be genuine new jobs, not transported or relocated workforce. Project is contestable – the company is, or has been, and can provide evidence of, consideration of other locations and the proposal would not otherwise happen in the Central Highlands’ region. Demonstrated commercial viability in the absence of any financial assistance through a fully costed business and project plan. Is a current operational business of more than two years and either has, or can obtain, an ABN. Or, if the business is a start-up of less than two years, proof of additional grant funding from a dedicated start-up program, or other financial support that will satisfy operational costs during the first two years. The project does not cause significant detriment to or be in substitution for, existing businesses in the region. The business activity must commence operation within 12 months of approval of the REDI package.

How to access more information

For more information about council’s REDI packages and submit an application visit this link or speak with the Strategic Planning Use team on 1300 242 686.