Council creates business support service

COVID-19 Business Information and Referral Service: 1300 307 800

In response to COVID-19 and the impact on local business and industry, Gympie Regional council is setting up a Business Information and Referral Service for the Gympie Region.

This service will be available from Monday 30 March and, as a first stage, will provide up-to-date relevant information about financial support services, including providing business information to assist with rate deferral and payment plans, fee and charges waivers, and to connect businesses to appropriate state and federal funding programs.

Council will also continue to work in collaboration with the Regional Chambers of Commerce and the Business Leap Program to further look at ways Council can support those who have been heavily impacted, said Gympie Regional Council CEO, Bernard Smith.

“We do understand there is a lot of information available which can be overwhelming and Council can help business navigate this space. We have summarized the state and federal assistance packages available for business, plus information and contact details for a range other organisations that may be of assistance.”

“We also understand that businesses are currently dealing with a lot issues, we’re not going away. This service will be available from Monday and will be ongoing throughout the current COVID-19 situation and into the recovery period. It is a free service that is here for you, when you need it.

Bernard Smith went on to say the service will grow and respond in response to these unprecedented times.

“This is just the first stage, we are looking at many options that Council can support and these will be led and directed by the feedback we receive from our local businesses and industry. This work will be continual and responsive as we know changes can be daily.”

Bernard said that Council also welcomes businesses to come forward if they believe that under the current circumstances, consideration should be given to relaxing some of the restrictions they are required to operate under.

Businesses and industry can call 1300 307 800 to access this service.

“We know that we can’t solve the challenges caused by COVID-19, however we can do all that we’re able to support business, industry and our community during this tough time.” Bernard Smith, CEO Gympie Regional Council.

For more information: gympie.qld.gov.au