Council extends Business Recovery Planning Initiative to continue support

Western Downs Regional Council is continuing to back local businesses, with a fresh round of free Business Recovery Planning sessions now on offer to help businesses recover from the economic impacts of coronavirus.  

Council recently partnered with local accounting and business advisory firms to deliver ‘quick response’ expert assistance to coach local businesses through the current challenges of COVID-19 and prepare for the future.     

Western Downs Regional Council Mayor Paul McVeigh said the first round was delivered as part of Council’s $50 million Recovery Package and provided vital assistance to 50 different businesses.   

“This is designed to give our businesses an immediate head-start and we have seen a quick take-up by local businesses as part of the first round delivered during May and June,” Cr McVeigh.  

“We’ve seen a significant take up by a range of local businesses – particularly within the agricultural, retail and services sectors – which is encouraging to know businesses are taking advantage of this initiative. 

“As a result of this strong demand, Council has agreed to extend the program and offer another round of free consultations to local businesses, with applications opening on 1 July, 2020. 

“This expert guidance covers areas such as cash flow planning, risk management, business continuity, and possible growth strategies, and to ensure businesses get the support they need quickly, Council will advise applicants of their outcome within 10 business days from the date Council receives a completed application.  

“This is about ensuring our businesses have the support they need to emerge through this unprecedented time and continue their important service to our region.”  

Associate Partner of Carrick Aland Daniel Bartkowski said Council’s Recovery Package had been a welcome gift to businesses of the region currently struggling with the financial pressure of COVID-19. 

“This package has allowed us to discuss with these businesses a range of options to help them move forward with increased confidence without placing any further financial pressure on them,” Mr Bartkowski said. 

“We commend the WDRC for this initiative and for supporting small business in the region.” 

Crossfit Dalby Owner Emma King said the flow on effects of Coronavirus had been devastating for business. 

“We went from having a healthy number of active members each week to zero overnight which created an immense amount of stress on our finances,” Ms King said.  

“The WDRC Recovery Package for businesses allowed us to have a discussion with Carrick Aland and work out our projected cashflow so we could re-open with a plan and increased confidence. 

“We now look forward with optimism to growing Crossfit Dalby bigger and better than before!” 

Applications for the second round of the Business Recovery Planning Initiative open on 1 July, 2020.  

For more information about Council’s visit the COVID-19 Recovery Package webpage via Council’s website: www.wdrc.qld.gov.au/recovery