The Victorian Government is supporting businesses most affected by the seven-day circuit breaker action, including operators in the hospitality, retail, events and creative industries with further targeted support.
The Victorian Government announced a $250 million Circuit Breaker Business Support Package to help up to 90,000 Victorian businesses that were unable to operate due to the restrictions running until 11:59pm on Thursday, 3 June.
The Circuit Breaker Business Support Package features three initiatives for small to medium-sized businesses and sole traders.
- The $190.01 million second round of the Business Costs Assistance Program will offer 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 license 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.
The National Retail Association welcomes the support, however, emphasizes that it hardly covers the tens of thousands of dollars in losses some retailers incurred as fresh produce turns bad. The Federal Government needs to step up its support for these businesses and provide a complementary stimulus package to aid the already ailing Victorian retail and hospitality industry.
Businesses can register their interest in the Business Costs Assistance Program, 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.
For more information about the Circuit Breaker Business Support Package, visit Business Victoria’s website.
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