Brimbank Council has welcomed news of the additional State Government support for local businesses as the Stage 4 restrictions continue to bite.
Under the State Government’s roadmap to recovery out of the Coronavirus pandemic, the next set of restrictions are not due to lift until the end of September, and then again the end of October.
Council has been calling on the State and Federal governments to step up support for Council’s COVID-19 community recovery plan in the light of extended restrictions that are having such a large impact on community and businesses in Brimbank and across Victoria.
The recently announced Victorian Government’s Outdoor Eating and Entertainment Package will provide $87.5 million to councils and businesses outside of Melbourne’s CBD to make widespread outdoor dining safe, practical and a reality this summer.
It follows the announcement of $1 billion in support of hospitality, waivers and deferral of charges and fees, payroll tax assistance and additional funding support under a third round of the Business Support Fund.
The most recent announcements are consistent with Brimbank’s 19 Point Plan for COVID Response and Recovery. which, along with other assistance, seeks:
- Dedicated economic package and response
- Further support for local businesses
- Support package for Brimbank City Council (with respect to funding for local councils to help support, fast rack and enforce new outdoor dining rules)
Brimbank Mayor, Cr Georgina Papafotiou said Council recognised the severe impacts of the restrictions on businesses and community members and encouraged businesses to take advantage of the State Government support in place.
‘As restrictions ease and businesses in our municipality plan for reopening under COVID-19 conditions, this funding support is vital,’ Cr Papafotiou said.
‘Our community must keep focused on reducing the risk of coronavirus and following the guidelines set in place for our safety, though it means we are living in challenging conditions. Along with providing what support we can, Council continues to advocate for practical support for the immediate as well as long term needs.’
As State Government has flagged the need for outdoor dining options as part of hospitality COVIDSafe planning for reopening, Council continues to work with local traders groups to work through what will be required.
Council services such as playgrounds, outdoor gyms and library click and collect services have re-opened this week in line with the slight easing in restrictions.
For more information
- Visit the Business Victoria website
- Read Council’s 19 Point Plan for COVID Response and Recovery.