Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke today said business people in Cootamundra-Gundagai can now set up a café, restaurant or small bar in less than 90 days, with Council ‘going live’ with the NSW Government’s Easy to do Business program.
Ms Cooke said the decision by Cootamundra Gundagai Regional Council to join the program paves the way for the emergence of a new foodie industry and café culture in the local area, which can now be established in a red-tape free zone.
“Starting up a hospitality business used to mean completing up to 48 forms, talking to 13 government agencies, and waiting up to 18 months.
“With Easy to do Business, local entrepreneurs can now complete one online form, call one phone number and open a café, restaurant or small bar in 90 days or less.
“New cafés, restaurants and small bars create jobs, and foster a lively night time culture – I’m delighted Council has gone live with this great program,” she said.
Cr. Abb McAlister, Mayor of Cootamundra Gundagai Regional Council, said the Easy to do Business program is a great win for the community, creating opportunities for the local economy and culture to thrive.“
“Cootamundra Gundagai Regional Council is excited to be a part of a new initiative from the Small Business Commissioner and Service NSW to help new cafes, restaurants & small bars open within the Council Area.
“Easy to do Business provides a ‘one stop shop’ to help new businesses find their feet and guide them through the many licences, approvals and different agencies.
“This is sure to increase the chance of new small businesses to opening and succeeding.”
John Stevens, Chair of the Cootamundra Development Corporation said starting up a new business can be very challenging and time consuming.
“We’re proud to promote Cootamundra Gundagai Regional Council’s involvement with Easy to Do Business. Small business is the hub of our community with many businesses in the area small operators.
“Any additional support a new business can get to help them use their time more efficiently when getting started is sure to be a success.”
Deputy Premier and Minister for Small Business John Barilaro congratulated Coolamon Shire Council for getting on board with the Easy to Do Business program.
“As a former small business owner, I know how important it is to do everything we can to make it easier for businesses to start up, operate and employ people and Easy to Do Business is a fantastic opportunity for local entrepreneurs,” he said
Businesses wanting to start up a café, restaurant or small bar can apply at https://www.service.nsw.gov.au/easy-do-business or phone 13 77 88.
