From Toronto to Australia: What’s next for our main streets?

I recently had the opportunity to attend the International Downtown Association’s 2026 Annual Conference in Toronto - three days bringing together more than 1,300 place leaders from around the world to explore the forces reshaping our downtowns, main streets and precincts. Toronto was a particularly fitting place for these conversations. It is the birthplace of the Business Improvement Area (BIA) model, which began there in 1970 and has since influenced approaches to precinct management around the world. The conference theme, Intersections: Where Districts, Disciplines & Ideas Converge, also reflected something that came through strongly across almost every session: successful places

American Express Commits up to $2 million to Australian Small Businesses through Amex Shop Small Grants program

As part of American Express’ continued backing of small business, today the company announced up to $2 million in grants to help Australian small businesses grow, innovate and support their communities through the Amex Shop Small Grants program, in partnership with Mainstreet Australia. From today up until 6 September 2026, eligible small businesses across the country can apply for a Shop Small grant of $20,000 each. American Express will contribute $1 million to fund 50 grants through the Program.

From Brussels to Brunswick: What Global Town Centre Leaders See in Our Main Streets

There’s something powerful about seeing your own main street through someone else’s eyes. Recently, Mainstreet Australia’s President Troy Stuchbree (in one of his last events for Mainstreet) hosted Jan Boots, CEO of a leading town centre management organisation in Brussels, for a walking tour of Sydney Road in Brunswick — one of Melbourne’s most iconic, longest and culturally layered high streets.

Vibing the Night | Visa Australia Night-Time Economy Index

As governments seek to boost productivity and attract investment, the night-time economy is emerging as a core element of economic and urban strategy. Encouraging more sectors - from retail and fitness to cultural institutions - to trade later, and ensuring safe, inclusive evening environments, helps cities unlock greater value. Those that foster vibrant, well-managed after-dark economies gain a competitive edge by attracting visitors, retaining residents and drawing investment into future-focused urban life. Read the full Index to learn more.

Heart Foundation | Good for Business: Evidence Paper 2025

The Heart Foundation's updated Good for Business evidence paper (2025) draws on 100+ studies to reinforce a clear finding: walkable, bikeable main streets are better for both retail vitality and community health. Four key recommendations show how towns can boost local business and accessibility with minimal cost and intervention.

American Express Announces the 2025 Grant Awardees for the Backing International Small Restaurants Program

Twenty standout restaurants – 15 across Melbourne and Sydney and 5 in Auckland – have been selected as grantees of the American Express Backing International Small Restaurants program. Each restaurant is receiving a grant of $15,000 USD ($23,000 AUD / $25,000 NZD) for critical improvements to their business, supporting their long-term growth. In partnership with the International Downtown Association (IDA) Foundation and supported by Mainstreet Australia, the American Express program offers grants to small, independent restaurants, empowering them to make critical improvements like refreshing dining spaces, enhancing digital tools and improving kitchen operations.

Shopfront Savvy Arrives in Ipswich for a Queensland First

“Small businesses are the lifeblood of our local economy and we want to do everything we can to help them succeed." In 2023, Ipswich City Council and Mainstreet Australia launched a new Shopfront Savvy event to help businesses improve their understanding of the local market and elevate their business knowledge. The event, held during Queensland Small Business Month, enabled businesses to meet industry experts, hear tips and advice, and gain tools for growth and success.

The Value of Victorian Main Streets

The Value of Victorian Main Streets report describes the scale, role and economic contribution of main streets across the state. Alongside celebrating their evolution, the report highlights main streets' importance to the state's economy, our social fabric and environmental landscape, and their vital role in rebuilding and repairing the effects of COVID-19. Victoria's main streets have always been more than retail spaces - they are key service delivery points, important employment providers, and places where residents and visitors gather, live, shop and connect.

Thriving Businesses are the Key to the Success of Any Main Street

After 40 years working with main streets, Urban Planner Stephen Sully has identified one factor that trumps all others: vibrant, desirable businesses. Without them, a main street ceases to exist, regardless of streetscape quality. Sully argues governments focus too heavily on planning and design, neglecting business support. The COVID pandemic highlighted main streets' vital importance - now is the time to work in genuine partnership with businesses and help them thrive.

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