Think Local

Did you know, for every $100 spent at a local business, on average, $52 stays in the local economy in the form of wages paid to local employees and suppliers?*

• That $52 is spent again and again by employees, owners and local suppliers
• It supports more jobs, more income, more tax revenue and more community investment
• Spend the same $100 at a chain store? Only about $14 stays local
• Buying online from elsewhere? As little as $2 stays local

This is the reason why local spending can have up to seven times the impact of spending at a chain store or online.

Frankston City has experienced significant growth over the past decade, and there is no sign of it slowing down. But right now, small and medium sized businesses - making up 98% of all enterprises in the city - need your continued support. 

When you choose to spend locally, you’re helping create a stronger Frankston City: supporting local jobs, helping small businesses grow, and building a vibrant, thriving community we can all enjoy.

*REMPLAN (Australia)

Introducing our 2026 Think Local Stars - who showcase just how much Frankston City has to offer. Their message is simple: your support keeps their business booming, our economy strong and our community vibrant. 

Our Think Local Stars are here to help us promote our Think Local campaign and to spread the message of the importance of supporting small business. When you spend with a local Frankston City business you are making a difference to your community.

Matt, Goldfinch Landscaping, Carrum Downs

Matt started Goldfinch Landscaping in 2022 and has quickly built a strong reputation for high-quality, reliable work across the Frankston area. Specialising in decks, fencing and paving, he creates functional outdoor spaces that add lasting value—while proudly supporting other local suppliers and businesses.

Neil, Peninsula Physio & Rehab, Frankston

Operating since 2021, Peninsula Physio & Rehab is a locally owned clinic delivering personalised, one-on-one care across a wide range of rehabilitation services. With a strong community focus, the team is passionate about helping locals achieve better health outcomes through consistent, tailored treatment.

Clover, Creek and Bay, Seaford

Since late 2024, Clover and her son Fox have been growing Creek and Bay into a vibrant, inclusive space celebrating local artists, makers and creativity. Showcasing unique handmade goods and alternative fashion, the store is all about connection, individuality and supporting the local creative community.

Rob, Sweetheart Plumbing Solutions, Frankston

For over 8 years, Sweetheart Plumbing Solutions has been delivering trusted plumbing and roofing services across Frankston. As a lifelong local, Rob is proud to give back to the community by providing dependable, high-quality service that keeps homes and businesses running smoothly.

Darren, X-Form Metal Product Design & Fabrication, Carrum Downs

Celebrating five years in business, X-Form specialises in custom sheet metal fabrication and innovative product design for a wide range of industries. As a family-owned business, they’re proud to support local jobs and contribute to Frankston’s strong manufacturing network.

Ali, 38 South Café & Bar, Seaford

A Seaford favourite since 2019, 38 South Café & Bar serves up modern Australian brunch, specialty coffee and standout cocktails right by the beach. With strong ties to the local community, the team is passionate about supporting other small businesses and keeping Seaford vibrant and thriving.

Think Local Month 2026 campaign ran in June and involved a number of initiatives to raise awareness about the importance of supporting our local small and medium Frankston City businesses. Here’s what we delivered in June 2026;  

• A Think Local launch event celebrating local businesses - Think Local Launch Event
• A video featuring local business owners encouraging the community to shop locally
• A calendar of local business events, training and information sessions
• A community competition
• Frankston City Business Directory competition - Business Directory Competition
• A Business Engagement Toolkit for businesses to download 
• FREE Business mentoring sessions - contact business@frankston.vic.gov.au to get yours today!
• Gift bags filled with merchandise and gifts from local businesses
• Window Decals and promotional materials for businesses to display and help create awareness
• A social media campaign 
• A closing event inviting feedback from local businesses

We have developed this toolkit to help your business easily participate in Think Local Month and share the campaign message across your shopfront, website and social media channels.

Some items may need multiple attempts to download, depending on network traffic.

Developed by Frankston City Council in collaboration with local industry experts, including the Frankston Business Chamber, the 2026 Think Local Month was action-packed featuring eight workshops, training opportunities and several events designed to support business growth, build skills and connections and encourage continued success in Frankston City.

At Frankston City Council we deliver ongoing FREE workshops and training throughout the year to support Frankston City businesses.

See what business events are already scheduled. 

Every time you buy from a local business, you’re supporting our community, reducing your carbon footprint, and helping to build a strong local economy and workforce. 

Simple ways to support local businesses:

• Make Frankston City your first stop for food, shopping, trades and services
• Use #ThinkLocalFrankstonCity to share your discoveries online
• If you’re a local business, shop locally for suppliers, trades and services
• Use the Frankston City Business Directory to find local businesses
• Host meetings or catch-ups at local cafés and restaurants
• Attend our business events or community events to network, collaborate and show your support 
• Follow local businesses on social media & engage with their content 
• Leave a positive online review for a business you love - or one you’ve just tried 
• If you have a physical shopfront in Frankston City, display the Think Local Decal to encourage customers to choose local first. Request your decal by emailing business@frankston.vic.gov.au with “Think Local Decal Request” in the subject line

Even small snippets of support can make a BIG difference to a small - medium business. Did you know that if each resident spends just $10 a month at a local business, it would boost our local economy to the tune of $17 million each year?