The forum was intended to shape the BBC's view on the penalty rates issue, using information and examples from Bendigo businesses.

BBC executive officer Patrick Falconer said there had been little interest in the event, which cost $45 for the general public to attend.

"There was also a lot going on for business people over the Anzac Day period, so it was a busy time," he said.

"We are planning to move it back to May or June, and it will likely be a free event."

Six Bendigo business leaders were to sit on a panel to share their knowledge and experience on penalty rates.

Mr Falconer said a forum planned for the coming months would take on a different format.

"It will likely be theatre style, possible in a lecture theatre, to try and get to the core of the debate," he said.

"Our organisation has a number of members in the tourism and hospitality industries."

The Productivity Commission is reviewing penalty rates as part of a wider review of workplace relations.

Some industry bodies have called on the federal government to introduce standardised rates across Saturday and Sunday, and to remove late-night loading as part of a list of requests in its submission.

Mr Falconer said the BBC had not yet considered whether it would make a submission to the review, but anyone was entitled to put forward their suggestions.