This information is current as of 20 March 2020.

It is deeply troubling to learn about so many good, hardworking small businesses in our community who are struggling or have been forced to close because of changes to demand and ability to perform work. 

We know business owners are suffering information overload when it comes to what is available to assist at this difficult time. That is why the McGowan Government has created the Small Business Assistance Centre within the Small Business Development Corporation to deal with queries from business owners looking to navigate the wide range of recently announced Federal and State government measures to alleviate the impacts of COVID-19. This includes information on available stimulus packages and eligibility requirements; advice on preparing businesses to manage impacts; and other resources.

We are encouraging small businesses to contact the newly created Assistance Centre by calling the hotline on 133 140 (between 8:30am – 4:30pm weekdays) or visiting their website. 

We also recently announced a $607 million stimulus package to provide relief to Western Australian families and small businesses, and help support the State’s economy to respond to Covid-19. This includes $402 million to freeze household fees and charges until at least 1 July 2021 and $114 million in additional measures to support small businesses.

The $114 million in measures to support WA small and medium businesses includes:

• One-off grants of $17,500 to businesses with a payroll between $1 million and $4 million.
• Fast-track payroll tax relief for small businesses, with the payroll tax threshold increasing to $1 million from 1 July 2020, six months earlier than planned.
• Small and medium-sized businesses affected by COVID-19 can apply to defer payment of their 2019-20 payroll tax until 21 July 2020.

Unfortunately, there is no silver bullet. We are uncertain how long this situation will last.

Again I am deeply troubled that there are small businesses in our community doing it tough and I will endeavour to best represent your interests to Government at every opportunity.

My office and I are available to assist you if you need information or support. You’re welcome to call my office on 9207 1538, email [email protected] or stay up to date on Facebook.