City of Parramatta Council is offering a range of measures to support the community and local businesses that have been impacted by the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.
"Council recognises that this is a difficult and stressful time for everyone, particularly those who have lost work or had to close their businesses as a result of new restrictions in place due to COVID-19," City of Parramatta Lord Mayor Cr Bob Dwyer said.
"With this in mind, we have a range of measures in place to help reduce the financial strain on our community during this unprecedented period of hardship.
"Council is looking at implementing further measures as the situation evolves."
City of Parramatta's support measures include:
Rates Hardship Policy
Residents and businesses who are having difficulty paying their rates can apply for financial relief under the Rates Hardship Policy. Eligible ratepayers can then enter into payment arrangements with Council.
Interest waiver for late payments
Council's next quarterly rates notice will be issued in April 2020 and is due by 31 May 2020. No interest will accrue on late payments for ratepayers entering into new payment plans.
Faster payment
Council will inject money more quickly into the economy by paying suppliers for good and services within seven days {rather than the usual 30 days}.
Supporting restaurants and cafes
Where cafes and restaurants are providing takeaway meal services in response to new restrictions on social gatherings, Council will work with operators to ensure the safety of patrons.
Further measures to support the community and businesses are likely to be announced over the coming weeks.