Gippsland businesses struggling as a result of bushfires will benefit from a new grants program and simplified access to existing loans and other services for small businesses.
Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester said the Bushfire Affected Small Business Rebuild package was in direct response to feedback from small businesses in fire affected communities like Gippsland.
“Businesses across Gippsland have faced an incredibly challenging start to the year but the Government is focused on supporting local economies to recover faster and build back better,” Mr Chester said.
“The package includes a new $10,000 grant to assist significantly impacted small businesses get back on their feet and maintain their businesses.
“The program is open to businesses that have experienced a 40 per cent drop in revenue over a three-month period, compared to the previous year, as a result of the bushfires.
“We are also working with the states to make it easier for businesses to access concessional loans with fewer documents and security requirements, as well as embedding more staff from the Bushfire Recovery Agency into recovery hubs.
“This will assist small business owners in navigating the system, filling in forms and getting the support they need.
“It is critical we make it as easy as possible for those who have suffered direct fire damage or been economically impacted following the fires, to get back on their feet.”
Mr Chester said it was as important as ever for people to get out, shop local and support small business.
“The best thing people can do to play their part in helping Gippsland recover is to get out and explore Gippsland, and support the local economy while doing it.
“The Government is doing its part but it’s important people understand Gippsland is open for business.”
Further details on the Bushfire Affected Small Business Rebuild Package are available on the National Bushfire Recovery Agency website at www.bushfirerecovery.gov.au/recovery-assistance/small-business
Summary of updates to the bushfire recovery package for small business
| $10,000 grants for maintenance costs |
| Eligible small businesses in LGAs selected by the States can apply for an additional grant of $10,000 to assist with the costs of maintaining their businesses. This may include – but is not limited to – accessing financial advice, covering salaries, wages, utilities, and fuel. Businesses must have experienced a 40 per cent drop in revenue over a three-month period, compared to the previous year, as a result of the bushfires. Businesses affected directly and indirectly can apply. |
| $18.2 million for greater access to grants and loans |
| Existing eligibility requirements for concessional loans up to $500,000 have been relaxed and simplified. This includes lowering the threshold for documentation when applying for a loan. The requirement for security to be provided for loans up to $50,000 has been removed. |
| $12.8 million for business advisory services |
| An additional 21 business experts are being deployed to recovery hubs. Small businesses can receive tailored advice, including information about accessing existing forms of assistance. |
| More face-to-face support for affected communities |
| Over the coming weeks, up to 20 additional NBRA staff will join existing Recovery Support Teams deployed to bushfire affected areas to provide guidance on administrative processes and application requirements for grants and loans. The teams have been operating since February, and aim to connect people and businesses to the government and non-government support programs most relevant to their circumstances. Five Liaison Officers are currently embedded in State Recovery Centres to ensure the Commonwealth and State/Territory Governments are working hand in glove. An additional three Liaison Officers will be deployed to the Orbost (Vic), Bega (NSW), and Adelaide Hills (SA) regions. Funding is across the 2020-21 and 2021-22 financial years. |