Regional NSW – North Coast – April 2020 » Bellingen Chamber of Commerce

21 Apr

REGIONAL NSW UPDATE

North Coast

Keeping people in jobs and helping businesses stay afloat

We’ve compiled all the relevant information and support available from local, State and Commonwealth government to help you through the COVID-19 pandemic. The NSW Government has also released the second stage of its economic package aimed at keeping people in jobs, helping businesses and supporting our most vulnerable.

NSW Government support and 24 hour COVID-19 Hotline

The NSW Government updates its business support information regularly to help keep you informed. Workers and businesses are able to access a range of advice and support on non-health related COVID-19 enquiries via the Service NSW contact centre 13 77 88.

Businesses impacted by COVID-19 can call 13 28 46 or visit the website. You’ll find information on rights and responsibilities of workplaces and employers, restrictions, gatherings and events, health and community service providers, hotels and accommodation facilities, SafeWorkNSW advice, and related information.

Australian Government support

Financial assistance, eligibility and timing for the new government support for Australian businesses is available and udated regularly on the Australian Government website. Support is available for sole traders, employers and companies.

Information for exporters

The Export Market Development Grants (EMDG) scheme is a key Australian Government financial assistance program for aspiring and current exporters. On 1 April 2020, the Government announced an increase in funding for the scheme. Funding will increase by $49.8 million in the 2019-20 financial year, allowing exporters and tourism businesses to get additional reimbursements for costs incurred in marketing their products and services around the world.

COVID-19 and the border

Department of Home Affairs provides updates to Australia’s immigration and border arrangements. Information is available on travelling from overseas, exemptions to travel restrictions, visa holders in Australia, and complying with visa conditions.

Local government support

North Coast Councils are offering local information and support for businesses and the community.

Regulatory changes to take pressure of ratepayers, businesses and councils

The NSW Government has made a series of regulatory changes to ensure council resources continue to be focused on frontline COVID-19 response efforts and allow councils to provide financial relief to businesses and residents.

Minister for Local Government Shelley Hancock said the changes acknowledge that councils are redirecting resources to ensure the delivery of essential services to their communities across the State.

Other support

COVID-19 is having a devastating impact on businesses across Australia. Learn about the positive steps you can take to keep your business operating and where to go for help.
Safe Work NSW and CPA Australia also have resources that may help in preparing business pandemic plans.

There are many avenues of support, whether for your business, employees, or for individuals in need of a helping hand. These include Business Connect, NSW Small Business Commissioner, Regional NSW, Service NSW, Fair Trading and the NSW Rural Assistance Authority.

ACROSS THE STATE

Department of Regional NSW

On 2 April 2020 the NSW Government announced the new Department of Regional NSW to better coordinate support for communities, businesses and farmers in the bush that have endured drought, bushfire and flood and now face the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional NSW John Barilaro said the department will bring together Primary Industries, Local Land Services, Resources and Geoscience and regional coordination across government to form a central agency dedicated to regional issues.

buy.nsw

buy.nsw is the new gateway to NSW Government procurement resources and services.

The new guided buying experience is more inclusive, a better mobile experience and also easier to read now that it’s been written with a plain English approach.