Re: Tough times – State Government Help

Many small businesses operators have highlighted to me the impact of the drought and/or fires in their businesses.

At this stage, the State Government is not prepared to make cash grants available however I would encourage people to take up Regional Development Victoria’s offer of a free analysis of your business.

I do this because I was most impressed by a presentation by Eildon Trout Fishing businessman, Geoff Hall, at a Drought Forum for Small Business operators in Benalla this week.

Geoff drew on his experience of severe business deterioration after the 2003 bushfires.

The analysis identified issues of weakness in his business but also opportunities to grow in the business.

Geoff acted on this information and in addition to modifying the business, he immediately successfully applied for a State Government Grant and qualified for an interest rate reduction and loan capital repayment holiday from his bank debts.

Regional Development Victoria can be contacted on:

Victorian Business Line (VBL)
Local call (within Australia) 13 22 15
International call (+61 3) 9651 8100

Good luck.

Bill Sykes MP
Member for Benalla
The Nationals Spokesperson for
Police & Emergency Services and Treasury