Thursday, 15 August 2019

 Mr SOMYUREK (South Eastern Metropolitan—Minister for Local Government, Minister for Small Business) (12:10): I am pleased to update the house on the investments being made by the Andrews Labor government to support small business owners in the Geelong region. A few weeks ago I had the pleasure of joining Geelong small business owners and employees at the Deakin University Geelong Business Excellence Awards, which were partly funded by the Victorian government through our small business local events initiative. This government recognises that to have a go sometimes people need help, whether that be from government, friends or family. That is why we have gotten behind small business in the Geelong region, working with local council to cut business approval wait times, investing $40 000 in local business groups and investing in the Geelong Small Business Festival and the aforementioned business awards. With small business making up 98 per cent of businesses in the Geelong region, these investments are helping not just small business owners but also the entire Geelong economy. I would encourage members from across the house to take the time to visit Geelong and see firsthand the local small businesses that are providing a great service and employment opportunities for their communities.