A $20 million Business Support Package will commence next week that will give much-needed relief to Tasmanian businesses struggling with the ongoing impacts of border closures to our biggest visitor markets.
Tasmanian Premier Peter Gutwein said:
“We know many of our businesses that rely on interstate and overseas visitation and trade are operating under severe hardship due to the current border restrictions, and we are taking action and doing what we can to help them through these difficult times.
“The package, jointly funded by the Tasmanian and Australian Governments, will commence on Tuesday 17 August and will be targeted at businesses operating in tourism, hospitality, arts and events, seafood and transport (hire car, coach tours) sectors, as well as those that have been impacted directly by reduced interstate visitation.
“Financial support of between $2000 and $10,000 will be available to businesses that have suffered a 30 per cent decline in their turnover. The grants will be non-competitive and assessed in order of receipt.
“Importantly, we know these businesses are struggling now, which is why we have simplified the guidelines and will provide an accelerated process to ensure money can get out the door as quickly as possible.
“The package forms part of our 4 Point Delta Shield Plan that will help keep our State safe and our economy strong as we continue to deal with the risks associated with the delta strain of COVID‑19.
“We will continue to monitor the situation around the nation and review the impacts on our businesses moving forward to determine any additional measures that may be required as we continue to respond to the ongoing COVID‑19 situation around the country.”
Federal Treasurer Josh Frydenberg said this new business support package builds on the $2.8 billion in direct economic support the Morrison Government has already delivered to Tasmanian households and businesses.
“The Morrison Government recognises the impact that lockdowns across the country are having on businesses in Tasmania,” the Treasurer said.
“This package will help to keep businesses in business and Tasmanians in jobs.”
“As we have done so throughout this crisis, we will continue to work with the Gutwein Government to ensure the Tasmanian economy recovers from the impact of COVID‑19 and is stronger on the other side.”
Full details about the program can be accessed at Business Tasmania website