$250 million in support grants announced for small businesses impacted by VIC lockdown

WIth small businesses struggling during Victoria’s latest snap lockdown, acting premier James Merlino has announced a $250 million support package to assist impacted business owners.

The Circuit Breaker Business Support Package will target 90,000 businesses that have been affected by the seven-day lockdown as small business advocates call for the government to reinstate JobKeeper payments for affected businesses.

Grants to support lockdown affected businesses

The package will incorporate a $190.01 million second round of the Business Costs Assistance Program which will provide grants of $2,500 for eligible businesses directly affected by the circuit-breaker industry restrictions, including restaurants and cafes, event suppliers, accommodation providers and non-essential retailers.

A $40.7 million new round of the Licensed Hospitality Venue Fund will provide businesses holding an eligible liquor licence and food certificate with a $3,500 grant per premises.

An allocation of $20 million will be dedicated to supporting operators in the events industry who have incurred losses due to the circuit-breaker restrictions, with more details to be provided shortly.

Grants will support businesses to pay expenses

Acting Premier James Merlino said the grants should go some way towards helping small businesses pay the bills and maintain their workforce

“The circuit-breaker action will keep Victorians safe and protect businesses and jobs – but we know it’s not easy shutting your doors and putting your plans on hold.”

“This support will help businesses pay the bills and maintain their workforce as best they can, as we work together to get through this challenge, “ the Acting Premier said.

How to apply for assistance

Businesses can register their interest in the Business Costs Assistance Program at business.vic.gov.au, so they can be notified when applications open this week. Operators eligible for the Licensed Hospitality Venue Fund payment will be contacted directly by email in coming days.

The new package builds on more than $6 billion in direct economic support from the Labor Government to help businesses get through the pandemic, including through three rounds of the Business Support Fund.

More information about the Circuit Breaker Business Support Package is available at  business.vic.gov.au

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