Timed to help small businesses expand and grow over summer, when demand is traditionally at its highest, the funding is aimed at providing a financial boost to encourage dining outlets to introduce outdoor options for customers.
According to Customer Service and Digital Minister Victor Dominello, the programme is set to assist about 5,000 medium and small-sized businesses that are expanding or opening alfresco dining facilities. He said that while people are dealing with issues relating to the pandemic, outdoor dining is among one of the safest options, adding:
“The $25.5 million program will see the dreams of business owners of turning their courtyard into a café or expanding to serve a summer kerbside chardonnay into a reality.”
The move to enable dining outdoors to flourish will also pave the way for businesses to introduce simple changes, such as better electrical or lighting connections.
Brochure printing campaigns targeting local businesses often spread the word about opportunities such as this latest government initiative for alfresco dining venues.
Successful applicants who are within the first 5,000 to receive the funding will benefit from a capped rebate of $5,000. In addition, eligible expenses experienced by hospitality businesses between 14 October, 2021 and 30 April this year may also be claimed.