Storm disaster payments available for regional Victorian businesses

Financial assistance is now available businesses affected by prolonged power outages following severe storms on 29 October across Victoria.

Assistance is being provided through the jointly funded Commonwealth-State Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA).

Senator for Victoria Sarah Henderson said the Prolonged Power Outage Support Payment will help local businesses that remain without power or were without power for more than seven days.

“Financial support of $2,500 per week, for up to three weeks, has been extended to all eligible businesses without power across parts of Victoria, including the City of Greater Geelong and Borough of Queenscliff local government areas,” Senator Henderson said.

“Local businesses are doing it tough without essential power. This assistance will alleviate some of their financial burden and help to keep them going under these difficult circumstances.

“Eligible businesses can use the Prolonged Power Outage Support Payment to pay wages, rent and other activities needed to keep their doors open.  

“This disaster assistance will be an important contribution as we rebuild and get back on track together.”

Businesses with an annual payroll of less than $10 million can apply for $2,500 per week for up to three weeks if they were without power as of 12.01am Friday 5 November 2021.

AusNet Services and United Energy will administer the Prolonged Power Outage Support Payment and contact eligible customers.

Information on disaster assistance is also available on the Australian Government’s website at www.disasterassist.gov.au.

19 November 2021