The State and Federal Governments have announced additional funding will be available for businesses and that the total funding package has increased from $260 million to $600 million.
The increase in funding means additional support is available for a broader range of Queensland businesses impacted by the recent South East Queensland, Cairns and Yarrabah lockdowns.
Applications for the 2021 COVID-19 Business Support Grants opened on 16 August 2021 and are due to close on 16 November 2021.
Eligible businesses and non-for-profit organisations could receive grant funds ranging from $10,000 to $30,000 (excluding GST) depending on the size and nature of the business or organisation. Funds received from the 2021 COVID-19 Business Support Grants may be used for business expenses.
Businesses and non-for-profit organisations that may be eligible for grants include small businesses, medium business and large tourism and hospitality businesses. Small, medium and large non-for-profit organisations may also be eligible to receive grant funding.
Business type |
Description |
Small businesses and not-for profit organisations |
Businesses with turnover over $75,000 per annum with annual payroll in Queensland not exceeding $1.3 million. |
Medium businesses and not-for profit organisations |
Businesses with turnover over $75,000 per annum with annual payroll in Queensland between $1.3 million and $10 million. |
Large tourism and hospitality businesses and not-for profit organisations |
Businesses which trade in the hospitality and tourism sectors with turnover exceeding $75,000 per annum with annual payroll in Queensland of over $10 million. |
Eligible businesses and non-for-profit organisations do not need to be located in South East Queensland or Cairns and Yarrabah to access COVID-19 Business Support Grants; however, to be eligible, businesses and organisations must have experienced a minimum 30% reduction in turnover due to the latest lockdown.
It has recently been announced by the Queensland Government that non-employing sole traders may also be eligible to apply for a grant of up to $1,000 if they have experienced a minimum 30% reduction in turnover due to the latest lockdowns. It is expected that additional information in relation to eligibility requirements and how to apply for these grants will be published by the Queensland Government in the near future.
Businesses and non-for-profit organisations should carefully consider the eligibility criteria published by the Queensland Government and what supporting documentation is to be provided before making an online application via the Queensland Rural and Industry Development Authority (QRIDA) portal.
Author: Emma Kime (Associate)