A new $1 million support program will provide $10,000 grants to small businesses and not-for-profit organisations in Kangaroo Valley that suffered significant financial losses due to prolonged road closures during the February-March 2022 flood event.
Federal Minister for Emergency Management Murray Watt said the Kangaroo Valley Road Closure Small Business Support Grant, which is jointly funded by the Commonwealth and New South Wales governments, will provide grants to small businesses and not-for-profits in the township that experienced a 40 per cent decline in turnover during the month of March.
“The road network in Kangaroo Valley was severely damaged by the extreme weather earlier this year, which posed challenges for local businesses which rely on visitors for their income,” Minister Watt said.
New South Wales Minister for Emergency Services and Resilience and Minister for Flood Recovery Steph Cooke said while the floods didn't directly damage Kangaroo Valley businesses, in some cases the road damage led to a revenue decline similar to those seen in other flood-impacted communities.
"By targeting these grants to Kangaroo Valley businesses, we can help them get back on their feet and keep their doors open while the restoration of public infrastructure continues," Ms Cooke said.
New South Wales Minister for Small Business Victor Dominello said the one-off payment of $10,000 would help businesses struggling with operating costs due to the decline of visitors caused by the road damage.
"We know how hard small business operators in the Kangaroo Valley were hit by the road closures associated with the recent floods. We are pleased to be opening up these grants today and I encourage all eligible small business operators and not-for-profit organisations in the region to apply," Mr Dominello said.
Small businesses and not-for-profit organisations which experienced a 40 per cent decline in turnover during the fourth quarter of the 2021-22 financial year, compared to the same period in the 2020-21 financial year, will be eligible for a $10,000 grant.
To learn more or apply, businesses and not-for-profits can visit the Service NSW website or call 13 77 88.