Sep 2, 2021 | 0 comments

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Media Release

Minister for Employment and Small Business and Minister for Training and Skills Development

The Honourable Di Farmer

$20 million sent to Queensland small businesses

More than $20 million is now in the pockets of small business across Queensland, thanks to the Palaszczuk Government’s COVID-19 Business Support Grants.

The $600 million program, jointly funded by the Palaszczuk and Commonwealth Governments, provides grants of up to $30,000 to businesses impacted by Queensland lockdowns. 

The Minister for Employment and Small Business, Di Farmer, said teams were working hard to get the money out the door.

“Here in Queensland, we didn’t have a lockdown that went for longer than three days until very recently. And Queenslanders did an incredible job to stop Delta in its tracks,” Minister Farmer said.

“Just like we were the first state to introduce a COVID economic stimulus package last year, we acted quickly again: applications for this support opened just one week after that lockdown ended and the first payments were being made the very next day.

“Applying is straight forward, with template letters provided to make the process easier. We’ve already processed thousands of applications thanks to the extra staff we’ve brought on board.

“Small businesses like hairdressers, beauty salons, gyms, cafes and restaurants which were hit hard by the COVID lockdown have been the biggest applicants so far.

“I want to be really clear: any eligible business that applies will receive the grant. Applications will be open until November 16 so there is plenty of time to get your paperwork in.”

Minister Farmer today visited Elysium Hair Brisbane which recently received their $10,000.

Owner Kate Henderson said the grant helps businesses like hers get through a difficult period.

“We are very grateful for this grant,” Ms Henderson said.

“The government’s assistance has been tremendously helpful for our team, which has been able to stay afloat financially while our salon was closed. Retaining our team is pivotal to the future success of our business.

“I’d encourage all businesses to get their application in so they can continue to trade and strive to grow.”

Minister Farmer said the COVID-19 Business Support Grants were just one element of the Palaszczuk Government’s $14.2 billion COVID-19 Economic Recovery Plan.

“The best thing we can do for businesses is ensure our economy is growing, do everything we can to ensure any lockdowns are short and sharp, and keep businesses open and trading,” Minister Farmer said.

“But we know the impact of COVID-19 is being felt, and that’s why there’s other support for businesses including $10,000 cleaning rebates for exposure sites, and $50 million worth of support for tourism and hospitality businesses.

“This is in addition to nearly $200 million COVID adaption support grants, nearly $1 billion in Jobs Support loans, $950 million in payroll tax relief, and $140 million in our Big Plans for Small Business package.

“There is also tailored one on one support available, including our Mentoring for Growth service, Small Business Financial Counsellors, and the Queensland Small Business Commissioner.

“I encourage all businesses to visit www.business.qld.gov.au or call our 24/7 Small Business Hotline, to make sure they’re taking full advantage of the support available.”

The COVID-19 Business Support Grants will remain open until 16 November 2021, with all eligible applicants to receive funding.

For more information on eligibility and how to apply, visit www.business.qld.gov.au/supportgrants or contact the Small Business Hotline on 1300 654 687.

ENDS

Media contact: Kate Talbot  07 4124 2526