The NSW Government will throw hard-hit small businesses impacted by the extended COVID-19 lockdown a $1.4 billion lifeline in support packages to remain afloat.
Greater Sydney's lockdown was yesterday stretched out for another week until July 16, a move that has left many businesses reeling from the economic blow.
The support comes as Federal Treasurer Josh Frydenberg knocked back a request from the state government to reinstate Jobkeeper for struggling businesses.
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NSW Treasurer Dominic Perrottet had written to Mr Frydenberg asking him to resurrect the program, who pointed to the Federal Government's disaster assistance payments as agreed by National Cabinet.
The payments are $300 for individuals who work less than 20 hours a week and $500 for workers who lost their job and work more than 20 hours a week.
Mr Perrottet announced a business rescue package with grants between $5000 and $10,000 for small businesses and payroll tax deferral for employers at the beginning of the lockdown.
The financial rescue package is expected to be expanded to include businesses and sole traders with an annual turnover of less than $75,000.
The NSW Treasurer told 2GB's Ben Fordham this morning the support packages would be available on July 19.
"My focus and the government's focus is to keep as many businesses going," he said.
https://omny.fm/shows/ben-fordham-full-show/nsw-treasurers-message-to-businesses-struggling-in/embed?style=cover"It's going to be a difficult nine days. I have complete faith as a state that we will get through this."
Sydney business owner Con, who supplies chicken schnitzels to hospitality venues, hit out at Mr Perrottet on 2GB, saying his customers were in "dire straits".
"Our customers are in dire straits because they can't pay us," he said.
"Our casual staff have still got work, but they are on minimal hours.
"These people are suffering. We're bleeding. You don't understand."
The NSW Treasurer said he "knows there's pain" for businesses enduring the lockdown.
"My message to every business and every person struggling at the moment is that the government has your back," Mr Perrottet said.
"I know it's difficult and I know it's a challenge, but we've had a balanced response. We will come through the other side.
"There is a light at the end of the tunnel now that the vaccine rollout continues.
"I really do believe at the end of the year our state will be stronger."
Mr Perrottet pledged to continue discussions with the Federal Government to secure additional support, particularly for casual workers.
"I will continue my constructive discussions with the Federal Treasurer," he said.
"I will continue to work with Josh Frydenberg to see if we can get further support for casual workers."
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