In an effort to stimulate the economy during these difficult times, Cessnock City Council's Economic Development team has reinvigorated the Support Local Cessnock campaign with competitions encouraging residents to support local businesses.

Kicking off this month, there will be $5000 in prizes to be won including gift cards, restaurant and accommodation vouchers, hampers and more.

Council's economic development and tourism manager Tony Chadwick said locals supporting locals is all about working together.

"It's about shopping and buying local; as well as hiring local talent - it's about keeping doors open!" he said.

"When we support local, every member of the community gets to enjoy the economic, social and environmental benefits; not just now, but well into the future.

"To ensure the success of the campaign we need our community to work collectively to bring about change."

The promotion will cover many industries including retail, wine, trades, accommodation, tourism, beauty, hairdressing, childcare and education, restaurants, health, medical and sporting stores.

The first competition, which runs throughout July, invites residents to give a 25-word-or-less shoutout to something unique they have found at a shop in Greater Cessnock, and post about it on Facebook or Instagram for the chance to win a $100 gift card.

Entrants must set their post to 'public', tag or name the business, and use the hashtag #supportlocalcessnock.

For more information (including the business owners campaign toolkit), visit advancecessnock.com.au or find Advance Cessnock City on Facebook.