The recent weather has left many areas flooded which has impacted families and businesses. During this difficult time for many people, it is important to access the available areas of relief. Hopefully, not many of you are needing this advice, but here is a list of benefits and relief programs that impacted people can access now.

The State Government has released a Small Business Immediate Flood Relief grant which provides a one-off payment of $5,000 to support the immediate clean-up of impacted businesses as well as repairs, inspections, hiring temporary equipment, and purchasing new stock. Information can be found at https://business.vic.gov.au/grants-and-programs/small-business-immediate-flood-relief-program. There are also separate State Government grants providing financial support for flood-impacted farmers. There are $10,000 grants for clean–up efforts, concessional loans of up to $250,000 to replace damaged equipment and infrastructure, and subsidies of up to $15,000 to help support the transport of emergency food or water or even the movement of impacted livestock. Information can be found at https://agriculture.vic.gov.au/farm-management/emergency-management/floods/flood-advice-and-support. All councils in impacted areas are waiving waste disposal fees for landfill areas for residents impacted by flood damage. In addition, there are hotlines being serviced for businesses needing advice and support (13 22 15) and for individuals needing mental health support (1300 375 330). Finally, a reminder that in times like these the ATO is also very supportive and understanding of impacted individuals and businesses. So outstanding tax debts and lodgements will not be pursued and impacted taxpayers just need to communicate their circumstances to the ATO. If you need any assistance in this area, please do not hesitate to contact us.