Free workshops: Learn how to win government contracts

Published on 15 May 2026

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Mount Alexander Shire Council is inviting local business operators to a free afternoon of workshops designed to help build pitching skills and better understand how to win government grants and contracts.

The Business in Practice: Winning Government Grants and Tenders workshops will bring together experts from Business Victoria, the Small Business Mentoring Service (SBMS) and Council’s own procurement team.

Mount Alexander Shire Mayor Toby Heydon said the workshops are a valuable opportunity for local businesses.

“Council spends around $20 million each year on goods and services and we give positive weighting to local suppliers,” Cr Heydon said.

“These workshops will help local businesses understand how government buying works and how to present themselves confidently and competitively.

“The skills covered are useful well beyond government contracts – whether you’re pitching to a client, applying for funding or planning for growth.”

The afternoon includes three sessions, and businesses can register for one, two or all three:

Session One: Developing Your Pitch (1.00pm–2.30pm)
Delivered by the Small Business Mentoring Service, this hands‑on session focuses on clarifying your unique selling proposition and delivering a strong, confident pitch.

Session Two: Winning Government Grants and Tenders (3.00pm–5.00pm)
Delivered by Business Victoria, this session provides practical guidance on finding opportunities, understanding tender documents and writing stronger grant and tender applications.

Session Three: Doing Business with Council (5.00pm–5.30pm)
Council’s Procurement Coordinator will outline upcoming opportunities and explain how tenders are assessed, including the advantage given to local suppliers.

Event details

  • Date: Wednesday 10 June 2026
  • Time: 1.00pm–5.30pm
  • Location: Castlemaine Community House, 30 Templeton Street, Castlemaine
  • Cost: Free
  • Registration: Essential

For more information and to register, visit www.mountalexander.vic.gov.au/Business-and-Growth/Training-and-events.

For enquiries, contact Council’s Business Team on 03 5471 1745 or email business@mountalexander.vic.gov.au.

 

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