By Ewen McRae
Melton and Moorabool councils have announced a raft of stimulus measures to help residents through the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
With social distancing measures placing a high strain on local businesses and residents, a wide range of measures have been implemented.
Melton council has put discussions for their 2020/21 budget on hold for now, and mayor Lara Carli unveiled a series of support measures for various parts of the community.
“As part of our upcoming budget deliberations, we will specifically look into relief packages for our residents and businesses who have been impacted financially,” Cr Carli said.
“We’ve also dropped all fees and charges for sporting clubs and associations, refunded all community venue hire bookings during this time, and are reviewing how we can assist sporting clubs and associations that are experiencing financial hardship.
“Council is about to launch an Open for Business campaign to promote businesses that are still trading during this crisis.
“We’re also offering free membership to our Venture Melton Network where business can access free workshops and mentoring with vital advice and support.
“In addition, we’re going to waive renewal fees on a range of permits and defer rates for businesses experiencing hardship.”
Other support measures for residents and businesses, including libraries and pet owners can be found at melton.vic.gov.au.
Moorabool council chief executive Derek Madden said they had adopted a targeted approach to the pandemic situation.
“We are encouraging affected businesses and residents to contact Council so we can put appropriate steps in place to support them during this challenging time,” Mr Madden said.
“Council has streamlined its financial hardship process and has temporarily extended it to all rateable properties in the Shire.
“This will allow affected properties to either enter into flexible payment arrangements to suit their capacity to pay or place a hold on the payment of their rate accounts during this difficult time.
“Council has also placed a temporary hold on the levying of penalty interest to allow time for businesses and residents to make suitable arrangements with Council.”
Moorabool council also launched a new COVID-19 business information page (moorabool.me/COVD19BusinessSupport) to help support local businesses, along with the Moorabool Shire Grants Hub (www.moorabool.vic.gov.au/grantshub) to help residents access state and federal grants available.
