Support for small business after Western Victoria bushfires

We're supporting small businesses and communities affected by the bushfires in Western Victoria with more than $29 million in assistance to support immediate and long-term recovery.

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

More than $24 million will deliver crucial support to Western Victoria businesses affected by the bushfires, including:

• A dedicated Business Bushfire Recovery Grant program to provide $5,000 grants to small businesses and eligible primary producers that have experienced significant disruptions and revenue losses due to the bushfires.
• A Business Recovery Advisory service which will be available through the Business Victoria website, providing free business support for impacted businesses so they can find the right strategies for long-term recovery
• Tourism marketing and promotional activities to boost visitor numbers to the Grampians region, which is on top of $100,000 for Grampians Wimmera Mallee Tourism to deliver immediate, on-the-ground industry support activities for affected businesses in the region.

More than $5 million will also help Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA) deliver an early environmental recovery package, supporting the survival of key native species and the recovery and restoration of fire-impacted public lands, waterways and catchments within Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park.

Since the fires occurred, Emergency Recovery Victoria and the Victorian Government has been on the ground with communities to help get them on the path to recovery. This includes helping convene a taskforce with a focus on small business, tourism and mental health support, waiving liquor license renewal fees for eligible businesses, and helping locals deal with insurance companies.

More information including Business Bushfire Recovery Grant program guidelines and how to apply will be available on the Business Victoria website soon.

Businesses can sign up now to register their interest and receive updates at business.vic.gov.au/2024-25-western-victoria-bushfire-supports