Geelong Council announce COVID 19 support measures

Moore Australia

25 March 2020

Geelong Council met on Tuesday night and agreed to a series of immediate measures to help local businesses and the community cope with the impacts of the Coronavirus pandemic.

This will include the following initiatives:

Development of a Council COVID-19 financial hardship policy including consideration of rates;
Waiver of rent/fees for community and sporting groups within City owned land/grounds and buildings for six months from 1 March 2020;
Reduction of rent by 50 per cent for eligible commercial tenants in City buildings or on City land for six months from 1 March 2020;
Refund of Alfresco Dining permit fees for 12 months;
Refund of A frame permit fees for 12 months;
Refund of food premises registration fees for three months of the 2019-20 financial year;
Refund of health premises fees for three months of the 2019-20 financial year;
Development of Business Support Portal for local businesses;
Development of Small Business Expert Support Program utilising local businesses;
Geelong Business Concierge Service Expansion to support business program development; and
Free casual on and off street parking in the Geelong CBD until 30 June 2020.

These initiatives are estimated at more than $1.2 million in value combined, while the free parking is worth around $2 million based on last year’s data.

These measures will form part of a short-term economic and community support package currently being put together by the Council which is expected to be finalised by April.

Councillors also agreed to the development of a medium to longer-term package to be funded in the 2020-21 financial year and presented to the council by June.

If you require more information please do not hesitate to contact our team on 03 9608 0100 or email victoria@moorestephens.com.au.

COVID-19 Geelong Council