The recent three day lockdown of Perth and Peel over the Anzac weekend was another hurdle for small businesses to jump in a marathon year.
I want to take a moment to once again recognise the significant part you are playing in supporting the long term recovery of our WA economy by complying with the lockdown closure orders and the ongoing restrictions.
We all recognise the need for swift action to protect the health of our community. However there is no doubt that the lockdowns and ongoing restrictions have had a disruptive impact on small business operators.
This is why I am very pleased that the State Government has announced the Small Business Lockdown Assistance Grants of $2,000 to support those that sustained direct costs from the lockdown, such as businesses that had purchased perishable food items in anticipation of a busy public holiday weekend (please note these grants have now closed).
We will work closely with the Minister for Small Business and the Department of Treasury to finalise the detail of these payments, including eligibility and the application process, and roll them out as soon as possible. Please keep an eye on our website and social media pages, where we will continue to keep you updated as soon as information is available.
I want to acknowledge that the grant payment will not reflect the full extent of the impact of the closure, and that all businesses that have in some way been affected, may not be eligible for financial assistance. Please understand that we will do our best to offer support through any means we have, including our free advisory service which you can access online (via live chat) or on our 133 140 number.
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David Eaton
WA Small Business Commissioner
