By Mitchell Clarke
Cardinia Shire Council is calling for government assistance as they launch phase one of their Covid-19 Community and Business Support package.
The first phase of the package, launched Thursday 2 April, will include a range of support initiatives to help the community and local businesses cope under the unprecedented effects of the coronavirus.
Some of the support measures will include fast tracking approvals and compliance matters, temporarily suspending some fees and charges, rent relief options and a shop local campaign.
Mayor Jeff Springfield said he encouraged anyone experiencing financial hardship to contact the council.
“We know people are doing it tough and we are keen to help our community get through this together and to provide some relief to our businesses and local economy,” Cr Springfield said.
“As well as what we’re delivering in phase 1, we are also considering more support for our community and local households through our 2020–21 budget process.”
It’s understood some of the further measures Cardinia Shire Council will consider includes rate deferrals and interest-free periods on outstanding rates and late payments.
Cr Springfield added that the council was actively working with the state and federal government to strongly advocate for more support.
“Cardinia Shire Council is calling for greater community relief, recovery and support from all levels of government to complement the current commitments and responses government and council have put in place in response to the Covid situation,” he said.
“We are a resilient community … let’s continue to support each other, our community and local business.”
Shadow local government minister Tim Smith said councils must think about freezing rates for this financial year and said the state government should be assisting local government with any loss of revenue.
“Many Victorians are facing a period of employment instability and rate relief would help ease the financial burden and ensure they can stay in their own homes,” Mr Smith said.
“Many smaller councils, as well as those in rural and growth areas, may not be able to afford this cost.
“One of the most important initiatives the state government could make to support vulnerable Victorian households would be to fund rate relief.”
When contacted for comment, a state government spokesperson referred the Gazette to a statement from Premier Daniel Andrews.
“I’ll have more announcements to make, but they’re not for today. There will be more support for business and households, and families,” Mr Andrews said.
For more information on phase one of Cardinia Shire Council’s Community and Business Support package, visit https://www.cardinia.vic.gov.au/info/20009/business_and_investment/781/council_s_community_and_business_support_package_covid-19.
