Alexandrina Council has launched a Business Support Package to help alleviate the local economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. 

The package will be delivered in three distinct phases, aimed at supporting business survival in the short term (April – June 2020), business recovery in the medium term (July – December 2020) and business growth and resilience in the longer term (January 2021 onwards). 

The package supplements existing economic stimulus and financial relief measures announced by both state and federal governments. 

The centrepiece is up to $200,000 of immediate financial relief measures, which features a three-month rent free period for eligible tenants of council buildings. There is also an automatic fee waiver of specific business permits including outdoor dining permits and health inspection fees. Both are available up until June. 

Medium and longer-term initiatives include establishing an Economic Development and Events Recovery Grant Program in the 2020-21 budget and implementing an Alexandrina Business Digital Economy Strategy to assist regional businesses get online. 

The package also outlines a range of business support initiatives, including reduced payment terms for local suppliers; a food guide promoting local businesses offering take-away and delivery options; flexible on-street parking controls; a dedicated COVID-19 business support portal on the council website and establishment of the Alexandrina Business Hotline (8555 7455) for local businesses seeking Council support and advice. 

Local businesses and others in the community experiencing financial hardship can also access a range of rate relief measures under council’s existing Hardship Policy. 

To learn more, please visit alexandrina.sa.gov.au.