Victoria has announced a new $250.7 million Circuit Breaker Business Support Package to assist 90,000 businesses affected by the seven-day circuit breaker announced on 27 May 2021.
The support package features three initiatives aimed at small to medium-sized businesses and sole traders impacted by the seven-day circuit breaker restrictions that will run until 11:59pm on Thursday, 3 June.
Update 2 June 2021: As a result of the seven-day extension to circuit breaker restrictions for metropolitan Melbourne announced on 2 June 2021, Victoria has extended the original Circuit Breaker Support Package to provide a new allocation of up to $209.3 million in grants.
Business Costs Assistance Program
This program will offer grants of $2,500 to eligible businesses directly affected by the circuit-breaker, in industries that cannot operate under the restrictions, and which cannot enable remote working.
Update 2 June 2021: Grants will be doubled to $5,000 for eligible businesses in metropolitan Melbourne affected by the extended restrictions. Regional businesses that are unable to open due to ongoing restrictions will also be eligible for the extension payment.
Applications will open on Thursday 3 June 2021 and will remain open for three weeks.
Licensed Hospitality Venue Fund 2021
An extension of previous support provided in November 2020 and February 2021, businesses who hold an eligible liquor licence and food certificate can receive a grant of $3,500 per premises.
Update 2 June 2021: Grants will be doubled to $7,000 for eligible businesses in metropolitan Melbourne affected by the extended restrictions.
Applications will open on Thursday 3 June 2021 and will remain open for three weeks.
Victorian Events Support Package
A $20 million package will also provide support for operators in the events industry who have incurred losses due to the circuit-breaker restrictions. More details on eligibility will be provided by the Victorian Government shortly.
Visit the following Business Victoria weblink for further updates on the eligibility criteria for the above grants or speak to your William Buck advisor to see if you are eligible for assistance.
