As communities across the Central West and Blue Mountains continue navigating the ongoing closure of the Great Western Highway at Victoria Pass, a series of free workshops is being rolled out to help local businesses stay informed, connected and resilient during what has become an increasingly difficult period.
The NSW Small Business Commission, in partnership with Service NSW Business Bureau and local organisations, will host workshops throughout June in Orange, Mount Victoria, Lithgow, Hartley, Oberon and Blackheath, focusing on practical tools, support services and strategies for businesses impacted by the closure.
The highway shutdown for urgent road repairs has significantly disrupted travel and freight movement between Sydney and the Central West, creating detours, longer travel times and growing uncertainty for both visitors and locals.
While businesses across the region continue to show remarkable resilience, many are also feeling the pressure.
Visitor economy operators have reported declining trade, reduced visitation and cancelled bookings, while freight, transport, trades, health and service-based businesses are also experiencing challenges. Many are additionally managing rising supply chain pressures and ongoing fuel cost concerns.
Importantly, the workshops are not just about information — they are about connection, practical action and reminding businesses they are not facing these challenges alone.
Earlier this year, representatives from the NSW Small Business Commission met with councils, chambers and business owners in Lithgow, Little Hartley, Blackheath, Mount Victoria, Bathurst and Orange to better understand the impacts being felt on the ground and to help guide practical support and advocacy measures.
The upcoming workshops will now bring that support directly into local communities.
Orange will host the first workshop on June 10 at The Schoolhouse Restaurant from 4.30pm, focusing on practical and free marketing ideas businesses can use immediately to remain visible and attract customers during disruption.
On June 15, Mount Victoria businesses are invited to the Victoria & Albert Guesthouse for a midday session connecting operators with support services including the NSW Small Business Commission, Service NSW Business Bureau, Beyond Blue and icare.
That same evening, Lithgow’s session at The Blue Fox from 6pm will include local business perspectives alongside information from support agencies, Lithgow Chamber, Lithgow Council and the Reconstruction Authority.
Hartley will host two workshops on June 16 centred around diversification, cashflow management and support services, with more venue information to be released shortly.
Oberon’s workshop on June 17 at Lake Oberon Estate will focus on marketing, customer engagement and practical low-cost strategies to help businesses remain front-of-mind during changing conditions.
While emotions around the highway closure remain understandably heated, many local leaders continue encouraging communities to support local businesses, travel where possible and maintain confidence in the region.
The message remains clear — the Central West is still open for business.
Businesses wishing to attend can register online via the NSW Small Business Commission website.
For more information or to register, visit NSW Small Business Commission – Great Western Highway Closure Workshops – www.smallbusiness.nsw.gov.au/gwh-closure
