Digitisation is leading the way in Victoria’s drive to slash red tape, making it easier for businesses to access government services, simplifying interactions and fast-tracking applications for businesses
The Andrews Labor Government is investing $50 million in regulatory reform to remove unnecessary obstacles to smooth out business operations, including $40 million for the Regulation Reform Incentive Fund to speed up approvals, simplify processes and deliver up to $200 million in annual ongoing benefits.
An additional $10 million for the Business Acceleration Fund supports Victorian businesses to streamline operations and allows for easier and more efficient opening of new businesses, an official press release said.
Service Victoria is streamlining annual liquor licence renewals in the hospitality sector for an estimated 25,000 bars, restaurants and venues. The new digital system that will improve on what was previously a mix of digital and paper-based forms.
Building practitioners will recoup precious time as online interactive forms replace paper-based registration, speeding up approvals for more than 1,800 builders a year. By automating manual applications, businesses in the meat and seafood industry will also benefit from a streamlined licence renewal process that prioritises efficiency.
In both cases, applicants will be able to receive registrations and licences up to a week earlier, enabling businesses to open and start work sooner.
Service Victoria is also supporting new businesses with an online business help tool. Food, health and beauty businesses can use Service Victoria to find the permits and licences they need to operate in around five minutes.
Working with 16 local councils, the Labor Government is delivering streamlined applications and faster approvals for a range of local businesses – with more councils soon to follow.
Fitness trainers in the City of Casey can get a permit online in around 10 minutes through Service Victoria, automatically allowing them to operate in some local parks. This can save fitness trainers up to a week waiting for permits. Businesses in the City of Melton can apply online for footpath trading permits through Service Victoria.
With over 50 reforms funded and being delivered, benefits to industries across the state include an estimated time saving of 287,000 days each year through more than 290,000 faster and easier approvals.
For more information, go to dtf.vic.gov.au/regulatory-
Follow The Indian Sun on Twitter | Instagram | Facebook
Support Independent Community Journalism
Dear Reader,The Indian Sun exists for one reason: to tell stories that might otherwise go unheard.
We report on local councils, state politics, small businesses and cultural festivals. We focus on the Indian diaspora and the wider multicultural community with care, balance and accountability. We publish in print and online, send regular newsletters and produce video content. We also run media training programs to help community organisations share their own stories.
We operate independently.
Community journalism does not have the backing of large media corporations. Advertising revenue fluctuates. Platform algorithms change. Costs continue to rise. Yet the need for credible, grounded reporting in a multicultural Australia has never been greater.
When you support The Indian Sun, you support:
• Independent reporting on issues affecting migrant communities
• Coverage of local and state decisions that shape daily life
• A platform for small businesses and community groups
• Media training that builds skills within the community
• Journalism accountable to readers
We cannot cover everything, but we work to cover what matters.
If you value thoughtful reporting that reflects Australia’s diversity, we invite you to contribute. Every donation helps us maintain the quality and consistency of our work.
Please consider making a contribution today.
Thank you for your support.
The Indian Sun Team
