Where to Find Support for Small Businesses

The Federal and State Governments have released a range of support services for businesses affected by the economic impact of COVID-19 (coronavirus). Make sure you don’t miss any key initiatives that might be relevant to you and your business as a sole trader or SME by checking these critical Federal and State government websites.

Federal Government’s Coronavirus Support for Business

Updated regularly, this is the Federal Government’s central website for information on financial assistance, eligibility and timing of new initiatives for businesses. You can also sign up for an email newsletter that will deliver the latest government business support news, contacts for practical resources and information on networking and training opportunities.  

If English is not your first language, access information on the Business.gov.au website on translation services. If you prefer to call for information on the Federal Government’s coronavirus business support services, the number is 13 28 46.

Federal Government Cash Flow Support

Head straight to the Australian Government Business website for information on temporary cash flow support for small and medium businesses and not-for-profits. Here you’ll find details about eligibility, timing and how to apply.

Federal Government JobKeeper Payment for Business

If your business is struggling to retain employees and has been significantly impacted by the coronavirus, the Australian Government JobKeeper Payment page has information about how to access the Federal Government $1,500 fortnightly payment for eligible employees. Here you will find details on who is eligible, the payment process, timing, how to apply and examples of the JobKeeper Payment for different situations.

Federal Government JobKeeper Payment for Sole Traders  

Specifically for sole traders whose turnover has significantly reduced due to the coronavirus, this website has information on eligibility, the payment process, timing, how to apply and examples of the $1,500 fortnight sole trader JobKeeper Payment for eligible employees.

Increasing Instant Asset Write-off for Businesses

The instant asset write-off is being increased from $30,000 to $150,000 and expanded to include businesses with an annual turnover up to $500 million. The Instant Asset Write-Off page on the Federal Government’s Business website will give you details on eligibility, timing, how to apply and examples of how the instant asset write-off can help your business.

Help with Energy Bills for Businesses

For businesses that are having trouble paying their energy bills, the Australian Government’s Help with Energy Bills page will give information about delaying payment, paying off an energy bill in increments and how to avoid disconnection.  

Rent Relief for Commercial Tenants

Businesses in financial distress due to the coronavirus may qualify for rent relief on their commercial property, which includes retail, office and industrial premises. Find information on the new code of conduct for commercial tenancies.  

Small Business State Government Support

NSW Government Support for Small Businesses

Access NSW business support services and guidance on this website, including fee waivers and tax assistance; grants, loans and financial assistance; and mental health and wellbeing resources.  

VIC Government Support for Small Businesses

A comprehensive coronavirus support website for Victorian businesses, here you can find regularly updated information on business support initiatives, an economic survival package fact sheet and how to apply for the Victorian Government’s Business Support Fund, a one-off $10,000 grant that can be used towards costs such as utilities, rent and business continuity planning.

QLD Government Support for Small Businesses

Find essential information on coronavirus support services for Queensland businesses, including a business support fact sheet, an update on business closures and a business assistance finder.

ACT Government Support for Small Businesses

As well as being able to access support information, the ACT Government has created a business liaison phone line – (02) 6205 0900 – for those seeking to understand what support services are available to them, including business fee waivers, vocational education and training opportunities, and a six-month waiver of payroll tax.  

WA Government Support for Small Businesses

Find out how the Western Australian Government is supporting small businesses during the coronavirus pandemic and subscribe to an email newsletter to receive updates on business support information.

SA Government Support for Small Businesses

Find a range of resources on the SA Government’s dedicated COVID-19 business support page, from concrete information on the South Australian Government’s support initiatives for businesses to a checklist on how to manage your business through a crisis.

TAS Government Support for Small Businesses

Read topline information on the Tasmanian Government’s coronavirus business support services, such as the Small Business Interest Free Loan Scheme and the Small Business Grants Program, with additional information on support, grants and loans.  

NT Government Support for Small Businesses

Discover information on the Northern Territory Government’s Jobs Rescue and Recovery Plan, Business Improvement Grant and other NT business support programs and initiatives.  

For more details on all these services, see Support Services for SMEs: Your Essential Guide.