Central Coast Home & Lifestyle Autumn 2021

PROPERTY and FINANCE

Council launches improved online customer centre Central Coast Council has unveiled a new and enhanced online customer service centre for the community. Council’s Director Connected Communities, Julie Vaughan said the updated platform was part of Council’s commitment to continually improve customers' experience. “Online is another way that customers can engage and inform Council of what is occurring in their homes and in their neighbourhoods,” Ms Vaughan said. “We have made it a priority to improve our online customer services to ensure that every engagement that the community has with us is easy and simple. “We want to get the experience right, so we have simplified the process to allow users to submit a request from anywhere at any time.“The new and improved online customer service centre provides more self- service options when lodging a request, and can assist customers to find information and tips on how to resolve their issue quickly and easily.“Once registered, users can track and view any updates to their service requests via the online service centre.”Mayor Lisa Matthews said the new platform is a win for the community, making initial business with Council more streamlined. “The online customer service centre is one of many services that Council has recently changed after listening to our customers about their experience, including the new Planning Portal for development applications. “I encourage residents and the community to utilise the online service to submit any customer service enquiries, provide feedback or report any issues that you would like Council to action.” To access Council’s Online Customer Service Centre, click on ‘Report an issue’ at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au

Don't miss out on funding your project

When your project aligns with these aims and goals then you are more likely to be successful with funding. Grants are part of a bigger picture so ensure you consider the purpose of the funding program before you apply. What are grants for? Grants are generally provided for projects, with a beginning and end, rather than to just run your organisation. Grants are available for a broad range of activities with a business or community focus: Community Grants assist groups to deliver a particular community service or address an identified need such as new community infrastructure or host an event/festival. Many community grants fall within the following categories: Arts and Culture, Sport and Recreation, Education, Environment, Heritage, Community Service Initiatives. Business Grants are a way to start, establish or expand a business with the aim to increase productivity, jobs and economic growth in areas such as: Research & Development, Innovation, Sustainability and Green Technology, Export, Manufacturing, Agriculture, IT & Communication Services, Medical & Biotechnology. See our Grants Explained and Top Tips if you need additional help. Information on Council’s Community Grants and Sponsorship program can be found on our website. centralcoast.grantguru.com.au

Central Coast Council is excited to provide the Central Coast Grant Finder to all local businesses, community groups, not-for-profits and individuals. This site provides a comprehensive list of grant and funding opportunities available to you. Our free service means you will never miss a grant opportunity again. Register to receive emailed alerts for new grants, save your favourites and access tips to help you apply for grants. Central Coast Council is proud to partner with Grant Guru to provide you with this service. Grant funding is a way to help build thriving communities. Our aim is to empower local businesses, community groups, sporting clubs and not-for- profit organisations to easily find and successfully apply for grants to turn ideas into reality…without wasting time and effort. The purpose of grants Funding is offered by government and private corporations to help fulfil strategic policies, objectives and aims.

Thinking of selling? Selling or buying your home is a big decision, so you deserve a real estate agent who not only keeps you updated and informed efficiently, but is also accessible, friendly and offers a personal touch. When it comes to selling your property for the best price, Central Coast Realty are very passionate about operating with total dedication and commitment. This is evidenced by a string of record prices achieved by them on a regular basis! Central Coast Realty have a huge data base of potential buyers looking for a property like yours! They’ll also do all the legwork to find only the most motivated buyers to ensure you receive a truly outstanding price in the shortest time possible. The Central Coast Realty team can even sell your property before it goes to the public market – (off market sale) the ideal scenario for many homeowners! As a homeowner, it’s understandable that you want the highest price possible for your home. You may have spent a lot of time and energy renovating, landscaping or decorating, so in getting the best return for your efforts, it is important to choose an agency who knows the Central Coast market! Anyone can sell a house. But selling your property for the right price requires extensive market knowledge, careful research and outstanding negotiation skills. Stuart Gan is a highly skilled, Licensed Real Estate Agent offering over 25 years of

experience in property sales here on the Central Coast of NSW! Consistently ranking in the top agents, Stuart has sold literally hundreds of prestige, residential properties from the Entrance in the North to Patonga in the South! Stuart has achieved the Central Coast’s highest single residential sale on many separate occasions! The Central Coast Realty team have actually achieved not just 1 but

several of the top 10 sale prices on the entire Central Coast consistently, each year, year in year out! If you are considering selling contact the Central Coast Realty Team for stand out results and a personal sale experience! Call or drop in for a coffee at their large Centraly located office, Central Coast Realty 279 West Street Umina Beach, or Phone: 02 4339 8074 website: centralcoastrealty.com.au

40 Home & Lifestyle Magazine | Autumn 2021