With extreme weather and flooding affecting communities and businesses across NSW there are a number of ways to get assistance, these can be found below.
It is most important that through these times you remain safe by regularly checking warnings and alerts on the NSW State Emergency service (NSW SES website). For emergency assistance call NSW SES on 132 500. If you are under an Evacuation Order you must wait for an “all clear” to be issued before it is safe to return to your business premises.
Grants For Farmers, Small Businesses and Not-For-Profit Organisations
The NSW and Australian Governments are working together to provide financial support to businesses who have been impacted by the recent floods. Eligible Primary Producers who are eligible are able to apply for a Special Disaster Grant of up to $75,000 on the Rural Assistance Authority website now.
Not-for-profit organisations and small businesses who are eligible can apply for a grant up to $50,000. Those affected are required to register their interest with Service NSW to receive notifications when more information is available, including eligibility criteria and how to apply.
Disaster Relief Loans
Businesses in local government areas who have been declared as ‘disaster areas‘ may be eligible for concessional loans from Government NSW as below:
- Small Businesses – Up to $130,000
- Not-For-Profit Organisations – Up to $25,000
- Sporting Clubs – Up to $10,000
- Primary Producers – Up to $130,000 and transport subsidies up to $15,000
Applicants are advised that all applications of assistance must be lodged by the application close date outlined in Declared Natural Disasters. Primary producers are also encouraged to report damage following a severe weather event with their Local Land Services (LLS) office or on 1300 795 299. Apply here.
Disaster Recovery Assistance
If the recent floods have impacted your business, information on clean-up options and mental health support can be found here. You can also use the Service NSW Disaster Assistance Finder, which is a simple online tool that gives you a personalised list of flood recovery services.
Mediation Support For Commercial Tenancies
If you are a retail or other commercial premises tenant, property agent or owner and are unsure who is responsible for repairs that have been caused by the recent storm damage, please check the terms of your lease agreement to understand repair obligations.
If the property owner and tenant are in dispute and cannot resolve their differences, they are encouraged to contact the NSW Small Business commissioner to discuss options for mediation.
Find out further information about the support services available for small business owners affected by the March 2022 storms and floods here. Businesses are encouraged to please take photographs of the visible damage as soon as it is safe to do so, to assist in accessing support in the future.
If you have any questions about the relief payments that you can apply for please don’t hesitate to contact us today at accountant@moneyclip.com.au or 02 9299 2292.