Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke has announced business people in Cowra 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.
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NSW Small Business Commissioner Robyn Hobbs OAM was on hand to launch and explain the program at the Cowra Business Chamber’s Women in Business event last Wednesday night.
Ms Cooke said the decision by Cowra Shire 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," Ms Cooke said.
"As a former small business owner myself, I know all-too-well how time consuming and frustrating this bureaucracy can be.
"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.
Cowra Mayor, Councillor Bill West, said the Easy to do Business program is a great win for the community, creating opportunities for the local economy and culture to thrive.
"The Easy to Do Business program aligns well with the council's new Regional Economic Development Strategy to build long-term economic prosperity, and supports local business by making doing business easier for the Cowra community," he said.
Jordan Core, President of the Cowra Business Chamber said starting up a new business can be very challenging and time consuming.
"Cowra Business Chamber fully supports this initiative by Service NSW and the Cowra Shire Council. It's exciting to see so many opportunities for small/medium to business thrive in our community,” he said.
"I believe this service will open doors to many business operators looking to start new ventures in Cowra and surrounds.”
Deputy Premier and Minister for Small Business John Barilaro congratulated Cowra 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.
