New scheme from Premier Dominic Perrottet provides relief to small business

As Sydney slowly returns to normal after lockdown, a new scheme from Premier Dominic Perrottet will allow small businesses to recoup the cost of road tolls.

Small businesses, including tradies, will be able to recoup the cost of road tolls under an expanded scheme to provide rebates on state government fees and charges.

The measure, announced on Tuesday, is part of Premier Dominic Perrottet’s Covid economic support ­package to get businesses back on track as the state ­reopens, which he was preparing to release before taking over as Premier.

Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) will now be able to claim up to $2000 in government fees and charges – including tolls.

The Daily Telegraph can also reveal that SMEs will be able to apply for grants of up to $20,000 if a local lockdown prevents them from opening over summer.

Premier Dominic Perrottet has announced a plan for small businesses to recoup road tolls. Picture: NCA NewsWire / Adam Yip

“These measures will give businesses and workers confidence to purchase stock and invest for the future knowing their doors will remain open as we get our economy firing again,” Mr Perrottet said.

SMEs will also be able to claim an extra $500 in fees and charges under an expanded ­rebate scheme.

The Small Business Fees and Charges Rebate has been increased from $1500 to $2000, and will now include tolls – which will cut costs for tradies travelling across ­Sydney for work.

Small businesses, including sole-traders that have a total wages cost below the $1.2m ­annual payroll tax threshold, are eligible for the rebate.

Small businsses can claim the grants.

“Adding tolls to the list of claimable charges is going to make a massive difference to many small business owners who use vehicles for work,” Small Business Minister Damien Tudehope said.

“It hasn’t been an easy ride for businesses across the state and now we are reopening, this should give them some assurance that we will be there for them every step of the way,” Mr Tudehope said.

The expanded Small Business Fees and Charges Rebate will be eligible for use until 30 June 2022.

Meanwhile, small businesses with a turnover between $75,000 and $50m will be able to apply for grants of up to $20,000 to compensate for the loss of perishable stock, or claim $10,000 to offset reduced capacity to sell non-perishables, if they are affected by any future lockdowns.

“We expect the summer will be a bumper time for businesses as the people of NSW emerge from lockdown and look to support their local, and we want business owners to know we have their back,” Treasurer Matt Kean said.

“We want businesses to have the confidence to get out and spend and invest in their business ahead of the busy Christmas trading period,” Mr Kean said.