Victoria backs businesses affected by seven-day circuit breaker
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Victoria’s Government is targeting their support towards businesses that were most affected by the seven-day circuit breaker action.
With the lockdown keeping doors shut for safety, Victorian businesses are struggling to stay afloat until 11:59 pm on 3 June. To help them stay afloat, the Victorian Government announced a $250.7 million Circuit Breaker Business Support Package.
“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,” Acting Premier James Merlino said.
“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 Circuit Breaker Business Support Package will aid over 90,000 Victorian businesses that have been affected by the lockdown restrictions. The Package will also include operators in the hospitality, retail, events and creative industries.
Minister for Industry Support and Recovery Martin Pakula said that while Victorian businesses have shown resilience and determination in the last months, the Circuit Breaker Business Support Package will provide support to where it is most needed.
The Package features three initiatives for SMEs and sole traders.
The second round of the Business Costs Assistance Program will offer grants of up to $2,500 for those directly affected by the restrictions caused by the circuit breaker. Businesses that are eligible for this program are restaurants and cafes, event suppliers, accommodation providers and non-essential retailers.
The Licensed Hospitality Venue Fund’s new round will provide a $3,500 grant per premises for businesses holding an eligible liquor licence and food certificate.
$20 million will be given to supporting operators in the events industry who have incurred losses due to the restrictions. Details on this will be provided shortly.
The Circuit Breaker Business Support Package adds on to the $6 billion direct economic support from the Government to help businesses get through the pandemic. Other initiatives included in the support are the three rounds of the Business Support Fund.
“We’re doing our part to support Victorian businesses and their workers- just as we have done right throughout the pandemic,” Treasurer Tim Pallas said.
Eliza is a content producer and editor at Public Spectrum. She is an experienced writer on topics related to the government and to the public, as well as stories that uplift and improve the community.
