Banyule Council in Melbourne’s northeast has a strong track record in utilising special rates to create vibrant main streets.
In a climate where many special rate schemes are under increasing scrutiny, and with some councils avoiding them, Banyule Council is leading the way with strong partnerships that are sustaining 11 vibrant local shopping strips and centres.
Banyule, one of the first councils to introduce funding agreements, is the only council in Australia still providing a significant annual financial contribution to every scheme, of which it has 11.
In 25 years, there has not been one appeal to the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal in relation to the 11 schemes.
In 2016, Banyule collected $589,000 in special rates to which it contributed $516,000 to fund a $1.1m program addressing both physical improvements at shopping centres and marketing initiatives to encourage shopping and doing business locally.
Council’s Economic Development Coordinator, Erica Hardie, said she believed the program’s success was down to good management and governance, and the strong partnerships forged with local businesses and trader associations.
“The program produces results and value for our main streets.
“Our commitment to best practice includes transparent and accountable financials, marketing and management guidelines, small business training, and supporting the development of robust business plans that guide expenditure and can be measured against tangible outcomes,” she said.
“Importantly, we also have a thorough rate review process that engages with owners and operators and enables frank feedback and continuous improvement.”
The program is also recognised nationally, winning the Local Government category of the 2016 Mainstreet Australia Awards, which recognise the people, projects and organisations contributing to the success and vibrancy of main streets.
Other Banyule related category wins were the Main Street Association of the Year (Heidelberg Central Traders) and the Manager/Centre Coordinator of the Year (Penny Jamieson).
Two projects were also finalists in their categories: the Heidelberg public toilet upgrade in the Annual Funding between $100,000-$200,000 category and the Safer Mall Project, Heidelberg West, in the Partnerships Category.
“We are also often sought out by other councils and associations for advice on how we manage our programs,” said Ms Hardie.
Apart from committing substantial financial and staff resources to the program, Council’s Economic Development Unit has built excellent relationships, created real partnerships that now extend across other areas of Council.
In turn, Banyule’s trader associations have increased their capacity to manage their centres and attract additional funding.
“Banyule’s businesses and associations now have a strong collective voice, which means they can successfully advocate and champion initiatives that produce benefits and opportunities for their areas.
“Backed by policy, guidelines and reporting frameworks that guide best practice approaches, Banyule is a great example of a council that loves, appreciates and values their main streets and is willing to put the time, effort and resources into building their capacity and effective management.”
