Council supports local businesses during pandemic

Council knows that local businesses are doing it tough in the current COVID-19 climate. There’s no short-term fix so today it has launched a local business support package.

Some of the key features of the package include:

Cafés and restaurants who lease space in Council owned properties will not have to pay rent while they are in forced closure. When they reopen, we will be giving them an additional two months free rent to help them get back on their feet. Footpath licensing fees and food inspection charges have also been temporarily waived. Other small businesses who lease Council property and are experiencing financial hardship due to restrictions, may also have their lease fees temporarily waived. As home delivery services becomes essential, food businesses will be assisted with improved access or dedicated parking. Council has also refunded the fees to anyone who hired Council facilities and were forced to cancel their events.

We will continue to work with the Federal and State governments to ensure our community receives the financial relief that is needed. It is also continuing to work with supermarkets and our suppliers to maintain essential services.

At the same time, Council is aware that we need to reduce the impact of the pandemic on our local economy so that we can quickly recover and rebuild ourselves when the time comes. Development/construction applications continue to be processed and Council is continuing to proceed where possible with current capital works programs to stimulate spending and employment.

North Sydney Mayor Jilly Gibson said this package acknowledges that there will be difficult challenges ahead for businesses and their employees.

“It saddens me to see our beloved local businesses closing their doors - some permanently.

“I hope that this will help them get through these tough times.”

Cr Gibson has also launched a #dinnershare campaign on the back of this announcement to further support local businesses now.

“The way it works is very easy - ring a friend or a neighbour, perhaps someone who’s just lost their job or is self-isolating and ask them if they’re happy for you to organise their dinner tonight.”

“Then ring your favourite local eatery and pay for a home delivery for your friend. This helps your friend and helps a local business - now more than ever we need to spread kindness in our community and this is a great way to pay it forward. Please tag #dinnershare when you do, I’d love to see the happy snaps which may inspire others too."

Shop Local North Sydney

Council has launched the Facebook group Shop Local North Sydney where local small businesses and local shoppers can connect. Please join this group and share with your friends and family!

Food Business Inspections

While food shop inspections must continue to ensure the health and safety of the community, no fees will be charged. Council's Environmental Health Officers are contacting each food shop on our register to ascertain if they are currently operating and offering delivery/take away food options.

Annual Fire Safety Statement Program

Due to many offices being closed, late submissions may not receive Penalty Infringement Notices, however this will be reviewed on a case-to-case basis. Please contact Council's Building Compliance Team if you have any questions.

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