Victorian government introduces $250 million support package for business in lockdown

Acting Premier James Merlino on Sunday confirmed the package would cover a range of businesses in the hospitality, retail, and events sectors.

From the package, about $190 million will go towards the second round of the Business Costs Assistance Program.

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The program will offer grants of $2500 for eligible businesses, including restaurants, cafes, event suppliers, accommodation providers, and non-essential retailers.

Another $40.7 million will go towards the Licensed Hospitality Venue Fund, which provides businesses holding an eligible liquor licence and food certificate with a $3500 grant per premises.

An allocation of $20 million will also be dedicated to supporting operators in the events industry who have incurred losses due to the lockdown.

Businesses can register their interest in the Business Costs Assistance Program at business.vic.gov.au, so they can be notified when applications open this week.

Read more: Casual workers, small businesses feeling lockdown sting

Operators eligible for the Licensed Hospitality Venue Fund payment will be contacted directly by email in coming days.

Treasurer Tim Pallas said the state government had pushed the federal government for assistance to workers but those requests were declined.

"We need them to step up to the plate," he said. "Workers need them, the community needs them.

"Only yesterday we heard representatives of the federal government say that they were the party for the workers.

"Well nice words, but it would be really good if the party did some work for working people and provided them with the assistance they need and require."

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