Faces of Greythorn Statues Project

The Faces of Greythorn project brought history to life through six larger-than-life chainsaw-carved statues dotting Greythorn Central's shopping strip. Led by Marketing Coordinator Yolanda Torrisi, the three-year initiative (including two years of COVID delays) saw the Greythorn Traders Association co-fund professional historical research and sculpture creation. Each statue - from orchardist Ferdinand Finger to businesswoman Evie Kay - represents the people who shaped this iconic North Balwyn precinct.

Mainstreet Australia Launches Plan to Save CBDs as Vacancies Spiral

Mainstreet Australia launched a partnership plan with the Victorian Government to protect and enhance main streets facing unprecedented pressures. Executive Officer Elizabeth Joldeski warned that vacancy rates had risen to 20% in some areas since COVID-19, threatening the tradition of local shopping. The organisation forecasted that with proper support, Victoria's main street businesses could employ an additional 66,000 people by 2030 and grow their economic contribution from $50 billion to $60 billion.

Shopping Precincts at the Heart of Our Communities Are Under Threat

Throughout all the hardships, main streets around Australia have shown their strength, but they remain under threat. It doesn’t matter where you are in Australia, a town's main street is key for a community and its local economy. But - according to Mainstreet Australia, the peak body for main street traders - businesses will continue to suffer without urgent action by local, state and federal governments.

Keeping it Local: Healthy Business, Healthy Community

Main streets, town centres, malls, thoroughfares, high streets and shopping centres are the lifeblood of local communities…and it is no different in the Hawkesbury. After years of hardship, from bushfires, to floods, to COVID-19 and now the cost-of-living crisis, the whole region is fighting its way back.

Special Rate Programs Information Victoria 2022-23

Victorian councils use Special Rate and Charge Schemes under the Local Government Act 1989 to fund specific infrastructure projects (roads, drainage, footpaths) or services (marketing, economic development) that provide a "special benefit" to selected properties beyond what the general public receives. These schemes are funded by the benefiting property owners through their rates notice and require consultation before implementation. They enable councils to deliver targeted projects efficiently, addressing gaps in standard service provision. This document outlines Special Rate or Charge Schemes operating across Victorian councils in June 2023, compiled by Mainstreet Australia with data provided by each council.

Report & Summary: Our Gathering Places Under Threat

Mainstreet Australia's 2022 advocacy report, Our Gathering Places Under Threat, presented an urgent call to action as Victorian main streets faced a critical crossroads. Despite renewed community interest in local living post-COVID-19, vacancy rates reached 20% in some areas amid mounting business pressures. The report outlined a comprehensive partnership vision between main street businesses and the Victorian Government, identifying five priority areas essential to sustainability. With Victoria's 698 main streets employing 390,000 people and generating over $50 billion annually, this advocacy plan demonstrates how collaborative action can protect these vital community hubs and realise thriving 20-minute neighbourhoods.

Main Streets at a Crossroad: Experiences From Australia Forum Webinar Summary

How can main streets adapt and thrive in changing times? This OECD Local Development Forum webinar, delivered in partnership with Mainstreet Australia, examines the challenges and policy responses shaping Victoria's 698 main streets. Discover why these vital community hubs - home to diverse retail, hospitality and service businesses within 10km of 90% of Victorians - matter beyond economic development. Explore key insights on supporting main streets as essential social infrastructure, learn from international perspectives, and understand the collaborative approaches needed to ensure these important precincts continue serving their communities effectively.

Survey Report: Addressing Anti-Social Behaviour On Our Main Streets

Mainstreet Australia conducted a survey in October 2024 examining the escalating issues of crime and anti-social behaviour affecting Australia's main streets. This report analyses how these challenges impact local businesses, communities, business operations, foot traffic and safety perceptions, while exploring viable solutions. With 67 participants from councils, precinct managers and diverse business sectors, the strong engagement demonstrates the critical need to address these concerns.

City of Hobart Case Study: Mainstreet Australia National Conference 2023

Following the 2023 Mainstreet Australia National Conference in Hobart, the City of Hobart reflects on what it means to 'Think Big, Act Local' through their economic development and placemaking strategies. With 6,529 small businesses - the state's highest density - Hobart's main streets face unique challenges, particularly specialised independent retailers vulnerable to economic downturns. Key lessons emphasise working collaboratively with stakeholders and ensuring local businesses and property owners share ownership of desired outcomes.

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