COVID-19 Business Assistance Information
The Coronavirus pandemic is having a substantial impact on the day to day operations of businesses as well as operations beyond the immediate timeframe.
COVID-19 Stimulus Package for Small Business: Small Business Development Corporation
On 12 March 2020, the Australian Government announced a $17.8 billion targeted stimulus package to support the Australian economy through the challenges.
The package is designed to keep small businesses afloat and employees in work, and will focus on supporting the most impacted sectors. The Government has stated that the measures are temporary, targeted and scalable.
The main areas of support relevant to small businesses are:
- Cash flow payment of up to $25,000 for employers
- 50 percent wage subsidy for apprentices and trainees
- Increase in the instant asset write-off threshold to $150,000
- 50 percent accelerated depreciation for investments
A second stimulus package was announced 22 March 2020, which includes an increase to cash flow assistance for businesses.
More information is available by clicking here.
JobKeeper Payment - Information for Employers
The JobKeeper payment is intended to provide wage subsidies to businesses that are significantly affected by COVID-19.
JobKeeper Payment - Information for Employees
COVID-19 Information and Support for Business: Business.gov.au
Updated information on financial assistance, eligibility and timing for the new government support for Australian Businesses is available by clicking the link below.
Coronavirus information and support for business.
Government Support for the Tourism Industry: Tourism Australia
Australian, State and Territory governments provide a range of support and relief assistance for tourism businesses.
Assistance and support for the tourism industry is available by clicking here.
Expressions of Interest for Emergency Accommodation
The Departments of Finance, Communities, Health and Tourism are working together to identify emergency accommodation for individuals affected by COVID-19 who are unable to self-isolate within Western Australia. Part of this work will involve identifying specific cohort needs in order to match individuals with appropriate accommodation options as they become available.
The Department of Finance has developed an online form for Expressions of Interest which can be completed by anyone with an accommodation asset they may be willing to offer the State Government during these difficult times. The form can be found at: https://wadepartmentfinance.au1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_1ZjeZpbs4nOMFqR
Should you receive any queries in relation to this process, please refer to them to emergencyacco@finance.wa.gov.au
Government Economic Response to Coronavirus: Australian Government Treasury
The Federal Government is acting decisively in the national interest to support households and businesses, and address the significant economic consequences of COVID-19.
The Government's economic response targets three areas:
- Support for individuals and households
- Support for business
- Support the flow of credit
For up to date information on the Australian Government's economic response to Coronavirus please click here.
Coronavirus Information: Tourism Australia
Available by clicking here.
COVID-19 Special update: Tourism Council Western Australia website
Available by clicking here.
COVID-19 Employer Guide: Managing the workplace in the fact of the outbreak: Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry
Available by clicking here.
Practical Advice and Assistance for Business: Chamber of Commerce and Industry Western Australia
The Chamber of Commerce and Industry website contains a key issue sheet, a working from home checklist and business continuity plans.
Access the documents by clicking here.
If you have questions about COVID-19 you can contact your state public health agency or the national virus hotline:
Federal Government links
The below information is available on the Australian Government business website:
More information on the Australian government’s response to the economic impacts of the COVID-19 can be found at https://treasury.gov.au/coronavirus/business-investment.
State Government links
The below information is available on the Government of Western Australia's website:
Local Government links
To help address the economic impacts caused by the current COVID-19 health crisis, the City of Greater Geraldton Council have agreed to endorse measures and actions to balance revenues but keep providing essential services to the community.