Pandemic packages for business
Jane Howlett details a program that aims to provide small businesses with assistance and financial advice services
THE Tasmanian government understands the significant impact the Covid19 pandemic has had on many of our small businesses.
That is why, as the Minister for Small Business, I am so pleased our $70 million supercharged Business Support Package is providing much-needed relief to those business operators impacted by the current border closures.
Jointly funded by the Tasmanian and Commonwealth governments, the existing $20 million Micro and Small Business Border Closure Grant program was boosted to $50 million, with grants up of up to $110,000 made available to eligible businesses across two funding rounds.
Already more than $21 million in funding has been distributed to some 1300 businesses.
This is an incredible result and is providing welcome support to micro and small businesses working in the tourism, hospitality, arts and events, seafood and transport (hire car, coach tours) sectors, and other businesses that have suffered severe hardship as a result of the lockdowns and border restrictions.
On top of the $50 million business support package, $20 million in financial relief is also available for eligible businesses through payroll tax relief, waiving fees and charges such as vehicle registration and passenger transport accreditation fees and licence fees payable to Parks and Wildlife.
There is no greater supporter of Tasmanian businesses than the Tasmanian and Australian Liberal governments, and this significant boost follows the unprecedented $130 million package provided to Tasmanian businesses during the height of the pandemic last year.
We also recognise the need for businesses to have access to specialist advice to assist with their recovery from the ongoing hardships associated with this global pandemic.
Which is why I am pleased that a new Covid-19
Small Business Advice and Financial Guidance Program opened on Monday, September 27.
This new program aims to provide eligible small businesses with access to specialist financial and other business advice services to assist in recovery, transitioning, growing or implementing strategies to address the impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic.
Eligible applicants will
receive a grant of between $750 to $1500 to obtain financial or other business guidance services including: advice, support or counselling to address financial or operational difficulties being experienced by the business; the development of risk management strategies; strategic analysis; the formulation of strategies to assist businesses address the impact of Covid-19; the development of business plans and governance frameworks; advice on pivoting, diversification, product innovation, marketing or enhancing an online presence as well as a range of other services.
This broad range of business advice will assist more small businesses to receive the support that best reflects their needs.
The development of this program has been informed by the Tasmanian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the Tasmanian Small Business Council, Regional Chambers of Commerce and our Enterprise Centres Tasmania business advisors.
For details about the new Covid-19 Small Business Advice and Financial Guidance program go to www.business.tas.gov.au