Support payments announced for Victorian businesses affected by lockdown
Victorian businesses affected by the city's two-week lockdown extension will receive a cash boost in support payments to stay afloat.
An $807 million funding package by the Victorian and Commonwealth governments was announced today to support more than 110,000 businesses and industries.
The hard-hit businesses set to reap the cash lifeline range from hospitality to non-essential retail, accommodation, events businesses, hairdressers and beauty services.
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Cash boost for Victorian businesses crippled by lockdown. Photo: Eddie Jim. Eddie Jim
The Commonwealth COVID-19 Disaster Payment for Melbourne workers and eligible sole-trader businesses has also been extended to September 2, when the city's lockdown is expected to end.
Since July 1, almost $450 million in COVID-19 Disaster payments have flowed into the incomes of more than 330,000 Victorians.
"We have worked collaboratively with the Victorian Government to give businesses as much certainty as possible during this challenging period, providing almost $2 billion in business support during this most recent outbreak alone," Federal Treasurer Josh Frydenberg said.
"Small businesses are integral to our economy and we will continue to support them."
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Treasurer Josh Frydenber says almost $2 billion in business support has been provided during this most recent outbreak. Nine
Victorian Treasurer Tim Pallas said he understood the crippling effects lockdowns posed on businesses.
"The Victorian Government recognises the serious challenges faced by businesses as the community joins together to fight the Delta strain in Melbourne," Mr Pallas said.
"Businesses are looking for certainty and it's only by suppressing this volatile strain that we can achieve this."
Victoria's Small Business COVID Hardship Fund will also support up to 18,000 businesses across the state.
The fund, which stands at over $250 million, aims to help businesses that may have "fallen through the cracks" when it comes to support payments.
"We encourage businesses that believe they meet the criteria to make an application for support," Victorian Minister for Industry Support and Recovery Martin Pakula said.
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