The funding support comes in two different forms, the first being a $14.5 million COVIDSafe Outdoor Activation Voucher Program specifically designed for the state’s businesses, community organisations, not-for-profits and trader associations.
A dollar-for-dollar arrangement with these groups will be offered by the government to the tune of $2000.
Any business prepared to invest at least $2000 on outdoor hospitality and entertainment is eligible for a matching grant.
Business Victoria, in conjunction with Service Victoria, will deliver the grants and they are open not only to restaurants, cafes and bars, but also hairdressers, beauty services, dance studios, gyms and retail businesses.
The second component of the Outdoor Economy Package is a $40 million injection into councils, Campaspe Shire Council receiving $300,000 to be used in two stages.
The government has allocated funds based on the level of business activity, with metropolitan councils to receiving between $300,000 and $800,000, regional councils $300,000 to $500,000, and rural councils $100,000 to $250,000.
Last year the Campaspe Shire Council received a similar grant for street furniture and landscaping worth $250,000.
Stage one of the council allocation is designed for council to provide immediate assistance for businesses to open outdoors through physical improvements.
Things like new street furniture, landscaping, marquees, planter boxers and public art are included in the initial stage, along with entertainment.
The second stage of the program is for the establishment of semi-permanent and permanent outdoor precincts.
Councils will be expected to use part of their allocation to waive permit fees and related charges for the establishment of these outdoor zones, a component of the grants being that no new or additional fees or charges are passed onto businesses to use new or upgraded outdoor spaces.
Campaspe Shire councillor Paul Jarman has a foot in both camps, operating three of Echuca’s most popular entertainment venues in his role as director of the Jarman Group.
He complimented the plan and said the current of operating outdoor entertainment areas could often run thousands of dollars every year.
“It is a good thing for the businesses, not just the hospitality sector,” Cr Jarman said.
“These outdoor spaces need to be initially assessed by the council and if there is no associated cost for business that will help enormously.
“Council officers play an important role in identifying the safety of outdoor trading zones.
“Campaspe shire has already been incredibly supportive during COVID by not charging people any extra fees during the pandemic.
“They have waived some fees and charges where appropriate right through the community.”
Cr Jarman said he hoped the injection of funds would encourage some “brave decisions” in regard to the design and implementationof the outdoor spaces.
“In Bendigo they are shutting down roads and all sorts of things in a bid to create a fresh look,” he said.
“Other communities are planning greening spaces and allowing foot traffic access to roadways.
“There is a real opportunity here for us to do something special for the business community, our residents and visitors to the town.”
Cr Jarman encouraged people to think about their businesses and what opportunities this created for their business.
"I hope we will see strong applications for funding support,“ he said.
"As a hospitality operator this media announcement is very welcome news and offers anyone who has been caught up in COVID restricted trading to look at opportunities.
“This can help business to get back on its feet.”
Last year Campaspe shire received $250,000 in funding support, which was used for outdoor furniture, umbrellas and stands, signage and general activation of outdoor areas through the entire shire.
18°C