Support for Victoria’s businesses and workers

A $250.7m Circuit Breaker Business Support Package, designed to to help hospitality, and other, businesses affected by the latest seven-day lockdown has been outlined by the Victorian Government.

The package will help up to 90,000 Victoria businesses across hospitality, retail, events and creative industries and features three initiatives for small to medium-sized businesses and sole traders.

The $190.01m 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 $40.7m 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 $20m 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.

Acting Premier James Merlino, said: “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.”

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.

Minister for Industry Support and Recovery Martin Pakula said: “Victorian businesses have shown amazing resilience and determination over the past 15 months, and this package will provide meaningful support where it is most needed.”

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

Treasurer Tim Pallas said: “We’re doing our part to support Victorian businesses and their workers- just as we have done right throughout the pandemic.”

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