For small businesses at every stage, location can be an increasingly important driver of competitive advantage. Access to customers, talent, suppliers, an established business community and infrastructure, and supportive local leadership can bridge the gap between barely surviving and long-term success.
In Melbourne’s north, the City of Whittlesea is emerging as one of Victoria’s most compelling destinations for small business. Strong population growth, rich cultural diversity, strategic infrastructure investment, and a clear vision for economic growth have enabled businesses across a wide range of sectors to operate with confidence.
As one of Melbourne’s largest and fastest-growing municipalities, the City of Whittlesea’s population is projected to grow by 50 per cent, reaching more than 360,000 residents, by 2040. This sustained growth is generating ongoing demand for local goods and services, creating opportunities for small businesses to build stable customer bases and strengthen their local presence.
A diverse and resilient local economy
Economic diversity sits at the heart of the City of Whittlesea’s growth strategy. The municipality is home to nationally significant industries, including health care and social assistance, construction, transport and logistics, wholesale trade, education, food and beverage, and a broad range of product manufacturing. This diversity contributes to the resilience of the local economy while creating opportunities for small businesses to operate within and alongside major industries.
More than 23,000 businesses are located in the municipality, forming a large and interconnected business community that provides a strong foundation for a broad mix of small businesses to function.
Strategic precincts that support business success
Epping, a state-recognised Metropolitan Activity Centre, is the beating heart of the municipality’s economy. Anchored by the Northern Hospital, the Epping Health, Wellness and Knowledge Precinct includes the Northern Centre for Health Education and Research, the Epping Private Hospital and the world’s first virtual emergency department. The $1 billion New Epping Health Hub further strengthens the precinct with an integrated mix of health services, commercial space, and residential development.
Established activity centres Epping, Thomastown, Bundoora and South Morang, along with emerging areas Mernda and Wollert, offer industrial and commercial opportunities to leverage future demand. Shared and serviced offices, neighbourhood centres and established business parks provide flexible options for businesses at different stages.
Council takes a place-based approach to economic development, focusing investment into well-planned precincts that support businesses to operate, connect and grow sustainably.
Connectivity, infrastructure and access to markets
Located 21km north of Melbourne’s CBD and 20km from Melbourne Airport, the City of Whittlesea offers direct access to major transport corridors, including the M80 Ring Road and Hume Freeway.
Extensive public transport services, including nine metropolitan train stations, frequent bus services and interconnected active transport infrastructure, underpin accessibility and connectivity across the municipality. Recent federal investment in the Beveridge Intermodal Precinct will further strengthen supply chain resilience and the region’s role as a strategic logistics and employment hub.
A skilled and growing workforce
Nearly half of the City of Whittlesea’s workforce lives locally, with a diverse mix of skills across trades, technical, service and professional roles. Proximity to RMIT University in Bundoora, Melbourne Polytechnic in Epping and La Trobe University nearby supports ongoing access to skilled workers, upskilling and partnership opportunities.
Future-focused businesses have much to gain from operating within a highly skilled and qualified business and resident community, creating opportunities for talent attraction, collaboration, and other mutually beneficial B2B relationships.
A council that actively supports small businesses
The City of Whittlesea positions itself as a partner in local business success. A personalised Business Concierge service is available to operators of all sizes and stages, from start-up through to expansion, supporting them to navigate permits, approvals and local processes. The Business Network offers events, training workshops and other programs to help businesses connect and keep up to date with industry standards. The B2B Grant Program supports capability building, innovation and growth, while the annual Business Awards celebrate the contribution made by local businesses.
Guided by a clear economic growth strategy, Council is committed to reducing friction for businesses, supporting day-to-day operations and connecting businesses to opportunities, networks and information.
With its strong growth outlook, strategic precincts, diverse economy, skilled workforce and commitment to supporting small business, the City of Whittlesea offers an environment where businesses of all types can operate with confidence as Melbourne continues to expand north.
- Learn more at whittlesea.vic.gov.au/invest.
