Support package a lifeline for Hunter Businesses

A new support package announced by the NSW Government will keep the doors of many businesses open, according to the region’s peak business organisation, Business Hunter.

The NSW Government has announced the package in the wake of the Omicron surge, with businesses of turnover between $75,000 and $50 million set to benefit.

Business Hunter CEO, Bob Hawes outlined the package, which commences from February 1 and includes:

• A payment of up to $5000 per week (20% of payroll) for businesses with turnover between $75,000 and $50 million who suffered a 40% downturn in January and project to do the same in February.
• The Small Business Fees and Charges rebate program extended to $3000, and can include 50% of the costs incurred to acquire RAT’s for the workplace,
• Commercial landlord relief extended until 13 March

“Businesses have been crying out for support because of the dramatic impacts that Omicron has had on their operations, especially in what many hoped would be their busiest time,” Mr Hawes said.

“It is critical for the economy that as many businesses get through this crisis as possible and whilst the package is not as comprehensive as some may have wished, the Government has responded with a targeted package aimed to help a wide variety of business owners who’ve suffered a downturn in their operations through no fault of their own.

“It really is a situation currently that every support piece counts  and we want as many businesses in tact as possible so when the community starts engaging and spending again, the recovery is a lot quicker and comprehensive.

“We encourage all businesses to access as much support as is available to them – and we will continue to advocate and push for business sustainability policies at the Government level because we want the Hunter business economy to endure this continued tumultuous period.