Thanks to recent flooding in New South Wales, many small businesses have been swept into unfortunate economic hardships. Help is at hand however, thanks to newly available government grants.
Small businesses in the local government areas of Gwydir, Moree and Narrabri that have been affected by the devastating floods can claim grants of up to $15,000 to assist in clean-up and immediate restoration.
The Natural Disaster Relief Scheme Grants aims to assist those who have suffered direct damage as a result of the 2012 floods. The scheme covers the cost of the clean-up and immediate restoration, the relocation to temporary premises, damage to equipment and replacement of damaged stock.
Small businesses eligible to apply include those with less than 20 full-time employees, registered business partnership or sole traders, locally owned and operated franchise and if the owner is a sole employee with a primary source of income that is more than 50 per cent.
The grant does not cover purchases after the flood, loss of income or the cost of using existing staff or your own labour for the massive clean-up ahead. This could mean many small business employers and employees may be out of work for a significant time.
An application can be lodged with the authority before the 31 August 2012. Applications will be progressed with a two-week turnaround time, including receipt of payments. The application should include complete copies of your latest business tax returns and financial statements, personal tax returns for each member of the business enterprise and provide paid tax invoice or receipt dated after the flood event for damages incurred
For more information contact 1800 678 593 or visit www.raa.nsw.gov.au for an application form or advice.