Chris Whiting MP has urged local businesses affected by the lockdown to put in an application for a COVID-19 Business Support Grant.

The COVID-19 Business Support Grants opened on 16 August and is offering $5,000 to help small and medium businesses recover.

“I’ve talked to many local businesses in the last couple of weeks and I know the latest lockdowns have been particularly hard on small business owners,” said Chris Whiting MP.

“I have been advocating to get a support package for local businesses and am really pleased to see the program now open.

“There’s no need to rush as applications will remain open for three months, and all eligible applicants will receive the grant.

“There’s time to review the guidelines and eligibility criteria before you apply.

“It is open to small and medium businesses and not for profit organisations, and large tourism and hospitality businesses.

“Your business must employ staff, have a Queensland headquarters, have an annual turnover of more than $75,000, have an annual payroll of not more than $10 million, and must show or declare a reduction in turnover of 30% or more for a 1-week period that includes at least 1 full day of the SEQ lockdown commencing 31 July 2021,” said Chris Whiting.

Guidelines and additional information is available at www.business.qld.gov.au/supportgrant

“For all the sole traders who have contacted me, we have some good news,” said Chris Whiting.

“There will be a joint Queensland and Australian Government support package coming for non-employing sole traders who had a decline in turnover of more than 30% due to the lockdown.

“It will offer a $1,000 one-off grant across Queensland and more information will be provided soon,” said Chris Whiting.

Non-employing small traders should register your interest here.

For more information on business grants programs, please email [email protected] or call the Small Business Hotline on 1300 654 687.