Hospitality businesses across parts of Melbourne will be able to access new funding for security upgrades under a $10 million Hospitality Security Fund announced by the Victorian Government.
The program, opened by Small and Family Business Minister Natalie Suleyman, offers grants to help venues strengthen protections for staff, customers and property through measures such as CCTV, alarm systems, safety audits and fire prevention upgrades.
Under the scheme, eligible businesses can apply for grants of up to $5,000 for security and fire safety improvements, with a matched contribution required for those not directly affected by fire-related crime linked to Operation Eclipse.
Venues that have been directly impacted by fire-related crime investigated under Operation Eclipse can access up to $25,000 without the need for matched funding.
The grants are available to hospitality businesses located in the City of Melbourne, City of Port Phillip, City of Stonnington and City of Yarra.
The initiative comes alongside ongoing police activity under Operation Eclipse, which has resulted in more than 65 arrests and 350 charges since April.
The government says the funding is intended to support business safety while reducing opportunities for repeat offending, particularly in busy inner-city hospitality precincts.
Victoria is home to more than 735,000 small businesses, which collectively employ over 1.3 million people and generate more than $417 billion in income for the state economy.
Minister for Small and Family Business Natalie Suleyman said the program is designed to provide practical support to operators dealing with safety concerns.
“Small business owners work so hard and put everything they have into their businesses they shouldn’t have to put up with this,” she said.
“We’re giving hospitality businesses more support to protect their businesses, their staff and their communities.”
Minister for Police Anthony Carbines said the funding complements enforcement efforts on the ground.
“We’re backing small businesses with what they need while giving Victoria Police more tools, more resources and more officers on the beat to crack down on these gutless thugs,” he said.
Applications for the grants are now open and will close at 4pm on 27 August 2026. Businesses can apply through the Victorian Government’s business support website.
Support independent community journalism. Support The Indian Sun.
Follow The Indian Sun on X | 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
