New measures to aid local economic recovery endorsed

Last week Shire of Augusta Margaret River Councillors passed further measures to bolster economic recovery and support community resilience as part of their evolving COVID-19 Community Care Package.

In March 2020, $2m was set aside under Community Care Package, with over $400k committed to date.

Three new measures include adoption of a Financial Hardship Policy, new Economic Stimulus Grants and Community Resilience Grants.

The Financial Hardship Policy provides several flexible payment arrangements for rate payers, businesses and community groups who can demonstrate financial hardship as a result of COVID-19.

Economic Stimulus Grants are aimed at building local employment, business success and sustainability. They are available to businesses, non-for-profits and incorporated associations with an ABN.

Community Resilience Grants have been developed to support long-term strategic community projects that enhance sustainability, build resilience and develop our community’s ability to withstand ongoing disruption and major shocks.

Shire President Ian Earl said the additional measures were aimed at the local level.

“Supporting our local community to weather the economic challenges we’re facing is Council’s priority,” he said.

“We know that within WA, our local government area is one of the worst hit by the economic fallout of this pandemic.

“These new measures are intended to complement existing State and Federal stimulus initiatives,“ he said.

Property rates are being distributed from 17 August and ratepayers who are experiencing financial strain as a result of the pandemic are encouraged to contact the Shire to discuss payment plan options.

Grants details

The new grants:

Open on Friday 28 August 2020, 9am Close on Friday 9 October 2020, 3pm.

Funding announcements will be made in mid-November 2020.

Application forms and final criteria will be available from 28 August on the Shire’s website at www.amrshire.wa.gov.au/council/financial-assistance .

Grants Information Session and Writing Workshop

An grants information and writing work will be held with specific information about these grants.

Date: Tuesday 15 September 2020 Time: 9.30am Venue: Council Chambers, 41 Wallcliffe Road, Margaret River

For more information please contact the Shire’s Community Development Team on 9780 5276 or 9780 5260 or to RSVP email [email protected]