Lithgow Emerging Economy Plan - LEEP

25/06/2026

⏰ Last chance to secure a fully funded training spot!

Thinking about a career in construction, or looking to boost your digital skills? This is your final opportunity to enrol in a range of FULLY FUNDED Institute of Applied Technology micro‑credential courses – perfect for anyone looking to upskill, reskill or take the next step in 2026.

👉 Browse available courses: https://www.iat.tafensw.edu.au/Course-Finder
⚠️ Hurry! Enrolments close 30 June 2026.

To register your interest, email your name, phone number and preferred course to leep(@)lithgow.nsw.gov.au

Search IAT microskills and microcredentials in construction and digital technology. Find industry-aligned training designed to build practical, job-ready skills.

24/06/2026

Two great FREE opportunities for Lithgow businesses this July 👇

Looking to strengthen your business, boost sales or secure funding? We’ve got you covered with two practical, hands‑on workshops designed to deliver real results.

📅 9 July – Grant Writing Workshop
Build the skills to become “grant ready” and submit stronger applications. Learn how to find funding opportunities, align with funding priorities, and write compelling proposals that stand out.

📅 28 July – Retail Masterclass for Lithgow Businesses
A practical, no‑nonsense session with retail expert Marguerite Bell focused on what actually works on the shop floor – from improving visual merchandising to increasing customer spend and boosting sales performance.

Both sessions are designed to give you tools you can apply immediately – whether you’re running a shopfront, growing a business or planning your next project.

✅ Practical, hands‑on learning
✅ Real‑world strategies
✅ Immediate impact for your business

👉 Find out more & register: leep.lithgow.com/events

22/06/2026

AI For Small Business – next steps...👣

The Lithgow District Chamber of Commerce presents this intermediate session for those who’ve already had a first look at AI and want to use it more effectively in day-to-day business. Learn how to use AI as a thinking partner, not just a writing tool, and get more value from tools like Microsoft Word and Excel, as well as compare key AI tools (ChatGPT, Claude, Google), and identify where AI can save time in your business without adding complexity.

📅 When: Thursday 17 July, 6-8pm
📍 Where: Adaptive Skills Hub – 176 Mort Street Lithgow
💲 Cost: $20 per person
💼 Register here

This intermediate AI session is for those who’ve already had a first look at AI and want to use it more effectively in day-to-day business.

19/06/2026

📜Apprentice support now open – Bert Evans Scholarships

First-year apprentices in NSW facing financial hardship can now apply for the Bert Evans Apprentice Scholarships, with support of up to $5,000 per year for up to three years. The scholarships can help cover the cost of tools, fuel and everyday living expenses – easing pressure and supporting apprentices to complete their training.

To be eligible, applicants must be a first-year apprentice (including school-based), employed by a NSW-based employer, experiencing financial or personal hardship, and be an Australian citizen or permanent resident. Applications are open until 30 September 2026.

More information - https://education.nsw.gov.au/skills-nsw/apprentices-and-trainees/support-with-your-apprenticeship-or-traineeship/bert-evans-apprentice-scholarships

18/06/2026

There's still time to drop by the Services Day at 176 Mort Street by 1.30pm. See you there!

Lithgow Services Day

Thanks to the local service providers who took part in today’s Lithgow Services Day.

Bringing together organisations across employment, legal, health, housing and community services, the day highlighted the range of support available across Lithgow.

We appreciate the time and expertise shared by all involved.

16/06/2026

Expanded support for Lithgow businesses!

Support linked to the Great Western Highway closure will be expanded from Mount Victoria, Hartley, Little Hartley and Hartley Vale to cover the entire Lithgow LGA; as well as some neighbouring regions.

Eligible small businesses can access free, tailored advisory support to help manage disruption and plan ahead – including up to three hours of one-on-one advice with an independent business advisor, plus upcoming local networking opportunities.

Support is available from 9 June to 9 September 2026 and can assist with:
– cash flow and debt management
– supply chain challenges
– customer access strategies
– workforce impacts
– business planning and diversification

Find out more and register:
https://www.service.nsw.gov.au/transaction/great-western-highway-road-closure

09/06/2026

🎬 Pike River Community Screening – Lithgow
The Mining and Energy Union is hosting a community screening of Pike River – a true story of mining families fighting for justice after the 2010 New Zealand disaster that claimed 29 lives.

This moving film is a reminder of why vigilance in mine safety matters – now and into the future.

📍 Union Theatre, 65 Bridge Street, Lithgow
🗓 Saturday 20 June
🕠 5.30pm for a 6.00pm screening

Free tickets are available – register early to secure your place.
👉

Pike River the movie depicts the true story of mining families fighting for justice following the 2010 New Zealand disaster that killed 29 mineworkers. It’s a stark reminder of why we must always be vigilant on mine safety. You’re invited to a special screening in Lithgow. Union Theatre, Bridge ...

04/06/2026

☕ Local businesses - pop by our First Friday Networking this morning at The Tin Shed from 7.00am – swing by anytime before 8.30am for a free coffee on us!

Whether you’ve got 5 minutes or 50, it’s a great chance to:
☕ connect with local businesses
☕ share ideas and opportunities
☕ build new partnerships

No speeches, no pressure – just good coffee and great conversations.
📍 The Tin Shed, Lithgow
🕗 7.00am–8.30am

See you there 👋

03/06/2026

LITHGOW SMALL BUSINESS WORKSHOP
On Monday June 15 the Small Business Commission is hosting a workshop in Lithgow for local businesses looking for practical ways to stay visible – “Supporting Your Business: Tips, Tools and Services Available.”

Hear directly from local businesses A Reader’s Heaven, Lithgow Bike Shop and Hartley’s Lolly Bug as they share what’s working, along with real‑world tips you can apply straight away.

You’ll also have the chance to connect with a range of support services, including:
🔹 NSW Small Business Commission
🔹 Service NSW Business Bureau
🔹 Lithgow Chamber & Council
🔹 icare, Beyond Blue & Reconstruction Authority

This is a relaxed, practical session – come along, ask questions, share experiences, and find out where to turn for support.

📅 Monday 15 June | 6pm – 7:30pm
📍 The Blue Fox, Lithgow
👉 Register here:
https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/supporting-your-business-tips-tools-and-services-available-tickets-1989964872502?aff=oddtdtcreator

Light refreshments provided.