The Closed System Pty Ltd
The initial trials that led to the SUSTAIN program were commenced in 2004 by the Victorian-based The Closed System Pty Ltd(The Closed System). The Closed System specialises in training managers in sustainability and is supported by the Victorian Government and local government bodies.

The Closed System’s objective is, and has been, to assist businesses to learn and integrate practical sustainability management techniques with the ultimate aim of improving the well-being of the individual business, its people, communities, and the nation and as a whole.

The Closed System has completed stage one of the SUSTAIN project and plans to direct its implementation through the next two stages of development.

Government


The Victorian Government has been instrumental in the widespread adoption by Business of The Closed System’s Programs.

From 2003-2008, the Victorian Government has funded approximately sixty businesses to participate in the trial program through the Dandenong Business Victoria office.

The Department of Industry, Innovation and Regional Development (DIIRD) has funded a series of ‘Grow your Business’ programs which have been auspiced and promoted by the Cities of Port Phillip, Casey, Frankston and Bayside, working in partnership with The Closed System.

The program costs $2000 (+GST) per participating business. The Victorian Government contributes 75% ($1500+GST) and each business contributes 25% ($500 + GST).

Municipalities


From 2003 to 2008 the municipalities of Port Philip, Casey, Frankston and Bayside, supported by Business Victoria, engaged The Closed System to facilitate a series of programs that were delivered to over sixty businesses and a hundred managers. This is continuing through 2007-08 as a as a result of the successful results the programs have engendered.

The core program that was presented ‘How to Sustain Your Business’ is designed as a self-paced program applying 10 Principles of Sustainability.

The four councils involved in the trial then expanded on the application of The Closed System’s sustainability principles, finding ways to apply this methodology through a number of innovative ventures in their Municipalities.