Warrnambool clothing retailer Daizy Boutique owner Maree Wills said the payments could be a "tremendous help" but wouldn't make up the 45 per cent downturn she saw last month.

"It will help to go towards the rent," Ms Wills said.

She pointed out the business was receiving bills she believed should be suspended such as one for her business-hours display on Liebig Street from Warrnambool City Council.

Deep Blue Hotel and Hot Springs co-owner Gene Seabrook said the $5000 would go towards utilities.

"While it's a help, it's not much of a help in the scheme of things," Mr Seabrook said.

"It wouldn't even cover my electricity for the month."

Mr Seabrook said his business had seven revenue streams that operated under one entity, including the hot springs, a restaurant and a conference facility.

"I think we should be able to apply for each revenue stream."

He said the stage three lockdown had left regional accommodation to operate in a grey area.

"I would prefer it was stage four lockdown right across Victoria," Mr Seabrook said.

"We are crippled, no one can travel so what's the point in the motel being open? But we need to stay open and stay in the marketplace."

Callaghan Motors dealer principal Steve Callaghan said the business was ineligible for the payment because his staff payroll exceeded the criteria.

"We are a medium family business, and we employ 65 people, and (the state government) has drawn a line in the sand," he said.

"We are grateful to the federal government with their JobKeeper plan. It is what it is and you just have to try and make it work."

To be eligible for the Business Support Fund grants a business must have employees who are participating in JobKeeper, and an annual payroll costing less than $3 million, among other criteria.

Applications for the program are open until September 14.

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