East Gippsland Shire Council has introduced a simplified Goods on Footpath permit fee structure as annual renewals are issued, aiming to ease financial pressure on local traders while keeping town centres safe and accessible.
Adopted as part of the 2026/27 Budget, the revised system replaces the previous per-metre charge with a tiered pricing model based on the total area of approved footpath space utilised by a business.
Council expects the new approach to provide greater operational flexibility and lower permit costs for many local operators.
Mayor Cr Jodie Ashworth said the changes respond directly to community feedback gathered during budget consultations and reflect council’s push to support small businesses navigating rising living and trading costs.
“We know our local cafés, restaurants and retailers play an important role in creating welcoming, vibrant town centres and supporting the local economy,” Cr Ashworth said.
“We also understand that running a business in the current economic climate is challenging, with many businesses continuing to face rising costs and financial pressures.”
“That’s why we’ve introduced a fairer and more flexible fee structure that reflects the amount of footpath space a business uses, giving operators greater choice and helping reduce costs for many businesses,” Cr Ashworth said.
Council is encouraging business owners who may have let permits lapse in previous years to contact staff, emphasising a collaborative approach to help traders navigate the renewal process.
Certain commercial activities on council-managed land or road reserves that fall outside standard footpath trading guidelines may still require a separate Trading Permit.
Traders with queries regarding their renewal or application can contact Council’s Community Laws team.
