SYPAQ Unveils New High-Security Drone at Land Forces 2024 Expo
Port Melbourne-based SYPAQ has launched its latest high-security drone, the Corvo Alto, at the Land Forces 2024 Expo in Melbourne. This follows the success of its cardboard Corvo drones, now used in Ukraine, and marks another milestone for the company. With three drone production lines and a state-of-the-art Defence Autonomy Centre of Excellence, SYPAQ continues to solidify its position as a leader in Australian defence technology.
Worms to ‘Upsoil’ Through Smart Composting in Fishermans Bend
The Upsoil Collective, a smart street-side worm composting solution, has won the 2024 Fishermans Bend Digital Innovation Challenge. With 57% of the votes, this design by Zoe Wang and Michael Mobbs will transform food waste into nutrient-rich compost. The winning team now begins planning to bring their concept to life in Fishermans Bend in 2025.
FB IDEAs Launches New Innovation Hub in Fishermans Bend
FB IDEAs has unveiled its new Incubator and Innovation Hub, providing emerging businesses and innovators with workspaces and a supportive community in Fishermans Bend. Located near the future Innovation Precinct, the hub offers affordable access to hotdesks, meeting rooms, and team spaces, with subsidies available for aligned projects.
CitySwitch Green Office: Free Program for Reducing Environmental Footprints
CitySwitch is a complimentary program aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions specifically for office-based businesses in the City of Port Phillip. It invites businesses to join a network of over 213 members across more than 700 office tenancies nationwide, all working towards achieving 'net zero' emissions. The program provides office-based businesses with free support, tools, resources, and access to events, while also facilitating connections with other businesses committed to similar environmental goals. This initiative supports businesses in their efforts to reduce their carbon footprint and enhance their sustainability practices.
Energy incentives and instant asset write-off for small businesses
Small businesses can benefit from two recent changes introduced by the Australian Tax Office. Firstly, they are eligible for a bonus 20 percent tax deduction on spending that supports more efficient energy use. This initiative is designed to encourage investment in energy-saving measures. Additionally, businesses can take advantage of the instant asset write-off for eligible assets costing less than $20,000. Both of these changes apply to costs incurred from 1 July 2023 to 30 June 2024, providing substantial opportunities for small businesses to reduce their tax liabilities while investing in operational improvements.
Aboriginal Business Growth Program
The Aboriginal Business Growth Program offers grants between $10,000 and $100,000 (excluding GST) to support the growth and development of Aboriginal-owned and operated businesses in Victoria. Applications for this program are open until Friday, 6 September 2024. Eligible businesses are encouraged to reach out to their local Aboriginal business support organisation for assistance with the application process, ensuring they can fully benefit from this opportunity to advance their business objectives.
Local Mussel Farmers Combine Tourism and Sustainability for Growth
Mussel farmers in Port Phillip are transforming local shellfish into a sought-after delicacy while promoting sustainability through innovative tourism initiatives. By offering bay tours, these farmers provide visitors with the opportunity to enjoy fresh mussels and learn about their environmental benefits, highlighting the crucial role of mussels in maintaining a healthy ecosystem. As demand rises, local farmers are pioneering hatchery production and sustainable farming practices.
Plan for the Future of Montague
Feedback on the draft Plan for Montague has emphasised the importance of preserving heritage while reimagining the laneway network as the area transforms over the next decade. There was strong support for the ‘destination laneways’ concept, alongside a clear desire to foster and grow small businesses, particularly in the creative and hospitality sectors. Respondents also highlighted buildings with unique character they wished to see incorporated into future developments.
