The NSW Government recently announced additional programs to support businesses following the Omicron wave. The following measures have been introduced/expanded.
- The 2022 Small Business Support Program
- For businesses with a turnover of $75,000 – $50 million that experienced a minimum 40% decline in turnover due to the impacts of Covid in January 2022 (compared to January 2021 or 2020) and in the first fortnight of February 2022 (compared to the same fortnight in February 2021 or 2020, whichever year was used in the January comparision).
- Support will be 20% of weekly payroll paid as a lump sum for the month of February (minimum payment of $750 per week and maximum payment of $5000 per week). Non-employing businesses can receive $500 per week paid as a lump sum of $2000.
- Businesses are now able to apply through Service NSW. Click here for application guidelines.
- Expanded Small Business Rebates for Fees, Charges and RATs
- For small businesses (including non-employing sole traders) and not-for-profit organisations with total Australian wages below the NSW Government 2020–21 payroll tax threshold of $1.2 million, an ABN and be registered in NSW and/or have business premises physically located and operating in NSW.
- This existing rebate will increase from $2000 to $3000 in late March 2022. Businesses who have already registered for the rebate will receive an automatic top-up of $1000.
- Eligible small businesses can use the rebate against government fees and charges incurred from 1 March 2021 to 30 June 2022, including for rapid antigen tests, food authority licences, liquor licences, trades food authority licences, liquor licences, tradesperson licences, event fees, outdoor seating fees, council rates, road user tolls for business use (View the full list of eligible fees and charges).
- Commercial Landlord Hardship Grant and extended Commercial Leasing Relief
If you’re a small commercial or retail landlord, you may be eligible for a grant under the commercial landlord hardship fund if your main source of income is impacted due to providing rent relief to tenants financially impacted by COVID-19 restrictions.
Grants of up to $3,000 per month (GST inclusive), per property, are available for eligible landlords who have provided rental waivers to affected tenants.
Click here to view the extensive eligibility requirements and please give us a call to discuss if you require assistance with this grant.
- Parents NSW Vouchers
In addition to the Dine & Discover Vouchers, Parents NSW Vouchers are now available to households with a school-aged child who was enrolled in school in 2021. Through the Service NSW app, these households can use up to five $50 vouchers (total of $250) at registered businesses for entertainment, recreation, and accommodation services.
There is now a myriad of grants, support packages and rebates available. If you have any questions or concerns about the Covid-19 support available for you, please contact us on (02) 9909 9888 for specific advice.