The Victorian State Government has announced assistance for targeted industries that were impacted by the recent five-day Circuit Breaker lock-down. The package is worth $143 million and is made up of four separate programs.Â
Business Costs Assistance Program
The Business Costs Assistance Program offers grants of $2,000 to eligible businesses that incurred direct costs due to the circuit breaker lock-down. This grant is available to employing businesses and sole traders but is limited to a small number of industries including hospitality, food wholesaling, tourism, events, and selected retail. The general eligibility criteria include:
- Hold an ABN
- Being Registered for GST
- Have an annual payroll less than $3 million (if employing)
Applications are now open although there is a tight time frame with applications closing on 15th March 2021.
Licensed Hospitality Venue Fund – Circuit Breaker Action Payment
If your business received a grant through the original Licensed Hospitality Venue Fund, then you will receive a further $3,000. If you are eligible for this package, you will not be able to apply for the business costs assistance program above.
Victorian Accommodation Support Program
Accommodation providers that experienced cancelations due to the circuit breaker lock-down can register their interest in grants of up to $4,500.
Regional Travel Voucher Scheme
The regional travel voucher scheme announced in 2020 has been expanded with an additional 10,000 vouchers of $200 available to support travel in regional Victoria.
There will also be a new Melbourne travel voucher for travel in greater Melbourne. This program that is yet to launch will include 40,000 vouchers.
To find out more about the Circuit Breaker Action Business Support Package click here.
Please contact JHL Accounting for any further assistance with the Circuit Breaker Action Business Support Package.