SOUTHERN BORDER GRANT DEADLINE EXTENDED

The Southern Border Small Business Support Grant program has been extended until 31 October 2020 for eligible small businesses operating in the 13 impacted Local Government Areas.

Treasurer Dominic Perrottet said the grant had been designed to help cushion the effects of the border restrictions on eligible NSW small businesses.

“This program is essential in helping keep businesses in business, and people in jobs as we set the state up for dynamic recovery,” Mr Perrottet said.

“Local small businesses keep our regions going, and when we support small business, we support jobs, families and more broadly the economy.”

Minister for Finance and Small Business Damien Tudehope said the extension would also allow businesses to apply who are located within the LGAs but have an ABN registered at another address.

“Small businesses are the backbone of our state. The Southern Border grant was established to provide targeted relief to those businesses near the border that need it most,” Mr Tudehope said.

“More than 1,000 businesses have successfully applied for the grants, helping them to keep their lights on and doors open.”

Minister for Customer Service Victor Dominello said applying for the grant was simple and easy and can be done online via Service NSW.

“We want to make life easier for businesses during this tough time. Funds can be spent on things such as utilities, rent, financial and legal advice, and marketing and communications activities,” Mr Dominello said.

The Southern Border Small Business Support Grant opened 8 September 2020, with applications now able to be submitted until 31 October 2020. The expanded criteria will take effect from today.

The grant can only be used for eligible expenses incurred following the closure of the NSW and Victoria border on 8 July 2020 for which no other government support is available. More information on the new grants is available at www.service.nsw.gov.au/southern-border-small-business-support-grant.