The Allan Labor Government is supporting small business impacted by the security incident in Porepunkah in August, with the Alpine Shire Business Support Grant Program is now open for applications. $5,000 grants now available.
Minister for Small Business and Employment Natalie Suleyman today announced small businesses in Alpine Shire across the hospitality, tourism, retail and events sectors, are eligible for $5,000 grants following revenue loss during this period.
The grant program is part of a $2.5 million investment to boost tourism and support the local communities affected in Porepunkah, Bright, and the surrounding region - helping business owners cover essential business costs, manage operations, and boost marketing to encourage visitors to return to the region.
Businesses in Porepunkah who have been most impacted have already been offered the $5,000 grants to support their recovery, with Business Victoria working directly with eligible visitor economy small businesses in the town.
As part of the support available, the Small Business Bus has visited Porepunkah on Monday, 6 October and Bright on Tuesday, 7 October 2025 to provide one-on-one tailored business advice to support small and family businesses who have been affected by the recent disruption.
This includes support to the Alpine Shire Council and the local business chamber to organise community activities and events, marketing campaigns, and long-term tourism projects to attract more visitors and grow the local economy.
Businesses are encouraged to read the Alpine Shire Business Support Grant Program guidelines before applying to find out more about their eligibility.
To apply, please visit business.vic.gov.au/grants-and-programs/alpine-shire-business-support-grant-program.
As stated by Minister for Small Business and Employment Natalie Suleyman
"Small businesses are the heart of tourism and employment across the Alpine Shire community - and these grants are about providing the assistance they need to get through this challenging period and support their recovery.
As stated by Treasurer and Member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes
"While our emergency services are still responding to this unthinkable crime, we know that businesses need support - it's why we are delivering this funding, to help the local community now and into the future."
As stated by Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Steve Dimopoulos
"We know how tough it's been for local businesses and the whole community during this tragic and unsettling time, and these grants will provide support to help the Alpine region recover and welcome visitors back."
