• Detailed eligibility criteria updated for Level 1 and 2 small business grant programs
• Periods of reduced turnover shortened to deliver assistance sooner for Level 1 and Level 2 COVID-19 Business Assistance Packages
• Applications to open March 10 for the Small Business Rental Relief Package and March 17 for the Small Business Hardship Fund

The McGowan Government has worked with industry to bring forward the delivery of support for small businesses affected by public health safety measures, as part of the recently announced $67 million Level 1 Business Assistance Package and $72 million Level 2 Business Assistance Package.

For the Level 1 Small Business Rental Relief Package, the period of time for small businesses to have experienced a 30 per cent or more decline in revenue has been shortened from six to four weeks.

For the Level 2 Small Business Hardship Grant Program, the period for small businesses to have experienced a 50 per cent or more decline in revenue has been reduced from four to two weeks.

The decline in revenue is for any consecutive period between January 1, 2022 and April 30, 2022 compared to an equivalent period in 2021. An alternative period in 2021 may be used if the business did not operate at that time or it provides an inaccurate representation of the business' financial situation.

Applications for the Small Business Rental Relief Package will open on Thursday March 10, while applications for the Small Business Hardship Grant Program will open on March 17. 

This means that those small to medium businesses most impacted by the Level 2 public health measures, including the 150 cap on patrons, will be able to apply on the day they would be eligible for assistance.

For further information, please visit the Small Business Development Corporation webpage https://www.smallbusiness.wa.gov.au/coronavirus/grants

Comments attributed to Premier Mark McGowan:

"My Government is committed to doing everything we can to help protect WA businesses, local jobs and the economy from the impacts of COVID-19.

"We continue to listen and respond to industry to ensure that our assistance is targeted to support those businesses most in need.

"Shortening the period to be eligible for the Level 1 and Level 2 grants program will ensure that small businesses receive support in a timely manner.

"We know the month ahead will be rocky but we are doing everything we can to minimise public health impacts and economic disruption."

Minister's office - 6552 5200