Whether you’re looking to start a business, grow your existing business, change the nature or location of your business, various departments of Whitehorse City Council are here to assist you in understanding the process and approvals you may need to consider.

Investment and Economic Development Unit 

The Investment and Economic Development Unit (I&ED) is here to help initiate and deliver business support programs, which respond to the needs of local and prospective businesses. This includes:

• A comprehensive range of workshops, seminars and business events. Check out what is coming up 
• Free small business mentoring
• Latest business news and updates. Register to receive our e-news, and follow us on Facebook 
• Free access to local and regional economic data. 
• Managing the Whitehorse Investment and Development Facilitation Service, which assists investors to navigate local government's rules, regulations and processes.

Statutory Planning 

This unit is responsible for ensuring that development in the municipality complies with relevant planning legislation. It is responsible matters including land use, development applications, parking needs, operating hours, outdoor advertising, number of occupants, liquor licences, external works, and alterations. 

Strategic Planning

This unit advises on planning policies or whether there are any proposed changes to the Planning Scheme that may affect your business.

Building 

This unit is responsible for the assessment and determination of building applications and conducting building inspections. It monitors standards with alterations, demolitions, new building works or extensions to ensure building meet fire, safety and structural standards. 

Environmental Health 

This unit controls the registration of health-related businesses (including but not limited to, food businesses, beauty and body art) to ensure that all health requirements and accreditation standards are met.

Community Laws

This unit regulates and issues permits relating to outdoor trading, product displays and A-frame footpath signage. Community Laws also assist in regulating car parking across the City of Whitehorse. 

Sustainability

Whitehorse City Council encourages all businesses to work towards becoming more environmentally sustainable as well as financially sustainable. Whitehorse City Council’s Sustainability Department can assist in reducing your carbon footprint in all facets of sustainability including water, energy, waste minimisation and transport. 

For more information visit Whitehorse City Council's website