Local businesses, workers and the performing arts sector in the Cootamundra
electorate will benefit from a $1 billion financial support package to help the hardest
hit get through the Omicron wave.
Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke today welcomed the package, which includes
$700 million for the Small Business Support Program, providing payroll assistance to
businesses.
“The NSW Government is determined to help businesses in the Cootamundra
electorate that have been doing it tough during the Omicron wave of COVID-19,” Ms
Cooke said.
“This financial support package shows that the NSW Government will do what it takes
to help workers and businesses in our small communities with practical measures that
will help them survive and bounce back.”
The Small Business Support Program helps those businesses with annual turnover of
between $75,000 and $50 million with a decline in turnover of at least 40 per cent.
It provides eligible businesses a lump sum payment of 20 per cent of weekly payroll
with a minimum payment of $500 per week and a maximum payment of $5,000 per
week.
Ms Cooke said the package also includes financial support for employing small
businesses to buy rapid antigen tests (RATs) to keep their workers stay safe.
“The package also extends the Commercial Landlord Hardship Grant and delivers
additional funding for the performing arts sector,” Ms Cooke said.
In addition, the existing Small Business Fees, Charges and RAT Rebate will be
increased by 50% from the current $2,000 limit to $3,000 and employing businesses
will be able to use the rebate to obtain RATs.
This will support worker availability by helping reduce costs to small businesses and
enabling healthy staff who have been exposed to COVID-19, but test negative, to
return to work.
For more information please visit nsw.gov.au
