Woodlea, a thriving community in Melbourne’s west, is offering the opportunity for a hospo operator to move into a multi-use hospitality space in the budding suburb, rent-free for three years. Plus, there’s a bunch of other perks. Here’s how to apply.
If you’re a hospitality operator who wants to expand their brand or take on a new challenge, a rare opportunity has come up. Woodlea, a masterplanned community in Melbourne’s west (that was recently crowned Victoria’s best) is offering the space to a hospo operator to move into for three years – with rent and utility bills totally taken care of.
How does it all work? Hospitality operators can apply to occupy the space, which already has an existing fit-out and commercial kitchen, for a year without rent or utility bills, saving around $50,000 in the process.
After September 2024, the operator will move into a larger, brand-new venue with access to an on-site produce garden and the option to expand use across a community space that can be used for retail or other commercial activities to help grow the business. The new space will be located next to four major footy ovals (with two operational next year), a major dog park, and a secondary school that is set to open for term one, 2024. Around $140,000 in rent, plus expenses such as utility bills, will be waived on the larger space. Between the two spaces, the operator will save close to $200,000.
The vendor will also work with Craig Tan Architects to guide the design of the fit-out in the new space, as well as getting access to a design team to help with branding and marketing. The planning committee behind Woodlea says the community is open to a cafe, restaurant, bakery or anything similar that could slot into the neighbourhood.
Applicants should be able to demonstrate that they’ve successfully run a hospitality business in the past, so the opportunity is open to experienced professionals who are looking to take on a new challenge or potentially expand their brand. It’s an excellent opportunity to get involved early with a growing community, build your business and ultimately save a lot of money.
Woodlea is 29km west of Melbourne’s CBD and is popular with couples and young families. The neighbourhood is already home to 14,000 residents, with the population set to expand to 25,000 residents upon completion.
Applications close on April 30.
For more information and to register an expression of interest, you can head to the Woodlea website here.
Photography: Provided
