Business Assistance

Small Business Bus

Operated by Small Business Victoria, the Small Business Bus visits Melbourne and regional Victoria as a 'travelling office on wheels'. It offers friendly, professional assistance and expert advice from an experienced business mentor.

https://business.vic.gov.au/learning-and-advice/workshops-and-small-business-bus

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Small Businesses Mentoring Program

Enhance your skills, expand your network, and receive expert guidance for your business by participating in a Business Victoria workshop or event, or by enrolling in one of our online courses

https://learn.business.vic.gov.au/

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Mental Health Support

Mental health resources for business owners

See how Beyond Blue can support your business's mental health. Find tools to promote well-being, receive expert guidance, and explore a comprehensive resource at: Beyond Blue Mental Health Support for Businesses -https://www.beyondblue.org.au/mental-health/small-business-owners-sole-traders

 Business.gov.au has a dedicated page on mental health where you can find a range of free mental health resources in Australia.

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Partners in Wellbeing Hotline

As part of the Victorian Government’s $26 million Wellbeing and Mental Health
Support program for small businesses, the Partners in Wellbeing Helpline offers
free and confidential one on one access to wellbeing and mental health support.

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The 1300 375 330 Helpline is available seven days a week from 9am to 10pm on weekdays and 9am to 5pm on weekends. The telephone helpline has also been expanded to provide business owners under stress with free access to financial counsellors.

The Victorian Government has other programs and resources to support your local
business community and stay resilient through trying times, which you can find on the
Business Victoria website.

 

St John Ambulance Mental Health and Crisis Support Training

Training available to key members who hold positions at Chambers of Commerce, Business Associations or Business Networks.

 

The training will be delivered in a virtual classroom, with 1 hour pre-learning and 2 days of 4 hour classroom sessions.  The topics trained include:

• What is Mental Health

• Causes of Mental Health Crisis

• Mental Illness explained

• Common Disorders (Mental Health Literacy)

• Myths about Mental Health and Stigma Impact

• Recognising and responding to signs of a person who may be at risk

• Role of First Aider

• Where to find Help

• Principles of Self-Care

To qualify for this training you must:

• Be a key member who holds a position at a Chamber of Commerce, Business Association or Business Networks; and

• Have a willingness to support your local business community with mental health and wellbeing challenges.

https://www.stjohnvic.com.au/first-aid-training/first-aid-courses/mental-health-and-crisis-support/?gclid=EAIaIQobChMIwKuLy8CwggMVBWMrCh1zaQ2kEAAYASAAEgIAA_D_BwE

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Additional Resources

Ahead for Business – small business mental health advice https://aheadforbusiness.org.au/

 

Victorian Small Business Commission (VSMC) - VSBC has a comprehensive mental health guide for small business owners including how to identify red flags, building strong support networks and creating a mental health plan https://www.vsbc.vic.gov.au/responding-to-coronavirus-covid-19/looking-after-your-mental-health/