Member for Werribee and Treasurer of Victoria Tim Pallas says that the coronavirus pandemic is having a devastating impact on lives and livelihoods throughout Victoria.
Mr Pallas states: “The Victorian government is taking all the necessary steps to support businesses, households and workers through to the other side of this worldwide crisis – including our own local small businesses.
“The government has announced more than $6 billion in economic support measures to help businesses and workers with the economic recovery.
As from June:
• 351 businesses across Wyndham have received full payroll tax refunds – totalling almost $10 million in cash back in the bank accounts of Wyndham businesses.
• 1021 businesses across Wyndham have received $10,000 grants to help stay afloat thanks to the government’s Business Support Fund.
• Hundreds more businesses are benefiting from targeted JobKeeper exemptions from payroll tax and WorkCover, and fast-tracked payment of supplier invoices.
He adds that the $500 million Tenancies Package is providing certainty to commercial and residential tenants and landlords.
“This includes a ban on evictions, rent relief, and a freeze to rent increases for eligible tenants, as well as tax relief for eligible landlords.
“Our $2.7 billion Building Works package is funding shovel-ready projects in Wyndham and around Victoria to get thousands of people back to work. The package will create 3700 direct jobs and thousands more indirect jobs, supporting local businesses and driving economic activity.
“We are also helping Victorians find new jobs, with the $500 million Working for Victoria fund, and we’ve frozen a host of fees, charges and levies at their current levels, including car registration, traffic infringements, and permit fees. We are fighting for every job, and every industry.
“Recognising that the return to Stage 3 restrictions will have a significant impact on businesses and their staff, the Government has rolled out a $534 million Business Survival Package, with cash grants for struggling businesses, business advisory and mental health support for business owners, expanded payroll tax deferrals, and relief for tourism operators.
“Businesses here in Werribee will be able to apply for the latest $5,000 grant and payroll tax deferrals to support them through the renewed restrictions.”
For more information on coronavirus business support, visit the Business Victoria website – www.business.vic.gov.au.
For important coronavirus updates, visit www.vic.gov.au/coronavirus.
