Applications for Victoria's Small Business COVID Hardship Fund are now open!

The Victorian Government's Small Business COVID Hardship Fund to assist businesses through Lockdown 6.0 is now open. Below is a summary of the eligibility requirements announced.

How much is the grant? 

Eligible businesses will receive $10,000. The funds must be used to assist the business. Applications are now open, and they will close when funds are exhausted or on 10 September 2021 at 11:59pm. 

Who is eligible for the fund? 

Businesses: 

• that have experienced at least a 70% reduction in turnover for a two-week period since 27 May 2021
• that are ineligible for other key COVID-19 Victorian Government business support programs that have been announced since 27 May 2021
• that hold an Australian Business Number (ABN) and are registered for GST on and from 28 July 2021

How do you demonstrate your decline?

You will need to show a 70% decline for a minimum consecutive two-week period since 27 May 2021 to a comparable, benchmark period in 2019 (27 May - 10 September 2019). If you do not have a trading history in 2019, please click here. 

How do you apply for the grant?

You can apply for this program in one of two ways:

1. Your accountant can apply on your behalf and verify the 70% drop in business turnover as part of the application, please contact your advisor for estimated costs to lodge.
2. You can apply directly as a business owner and have the application verified by your accountant using this letter. 

More information on the Small Business COVID Hardship fund

For more information on eligibility and applications please click here.  The status of your application will appear on the Business Victoria Grants Portal.

Other Victorian Government Funding 

Businesses are only eligible for the Small Business COVID Hardship Fund if they have not received any other support packages launched from 27 May 2021. These packages include:

• Business Costs Assistance Program
• Licensed Hospitality Venue Fund
• Alpine Resorts Support Program
• Victorian Events Support Package

If you are awaiting the outcome of applying for one of the above grants, you may still apply for the Small Business COVID Hardship Fund but your other application will be considered first. Please note that receiving the Commonwealth COVID-19 Disaster Payment does not impact your eligibility for the Hardship Fund.  

For any questions regarding applying for the current COVID-19 support available or testing your eligibility, please get in contact with your Client Director.