The Victorian Government’s Business Support Fund has now been expanded and is open for applications. Previously the scheme was only open to business that operate in certain industry sectors that had been significantly impacted, or subject to closure due to Government directions.
The $500 million fund was established to help small businesses survive the impacts of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic and keep people in work.

Eligible businesses can apply for a one-off $10,000 grant which can be used towards costs such as utilities, rent and salaries, and activities to support business continuity planning.

Eligibility requirements

Businesses are eligible to apply for a grant through the Fund if they meet the following criteria:

• Employ people; and
• Have a turnover of more than $75,000; and
• Have payroll of less than $650,000; and
• Hold an Australian Business Number (ABN) and held that ABN at 16 March 2020 (when the State of Emergency External link (opens in same window)was declared); and
• Have been engaged in carrying out the operation of the business in the Australian State of Victoria on 16 March 2020.
• Have enrolled as eligible participants in the Commonwealth Government’s JobKeeper payment scheme.
• Have not previously made an application to receive the grant from the Business Support Fund. Previous unsuccessful applicants will be contacted directly by Business Victoria.