While a quick look down Banna Avenue shows the impact of the COVID-19 lockdown on business in Griffith, Council is investigating ways to reinvigorate activity once restrictions ease.
Although the retail sector has pivoted to online goods and services, everyday foot traffic has greatly reduced. A recent traffic count of vehicles per day accessing Wakaden Street West of Crossing Street showed there has been a 31 percent reduction in the number of vehicles on this particular section of road. Some 8,422 pre-lockdown daily vehicle movements has dropped to 5,806 daily, this figure including vehicles that would normally progress to Banna Avenue?.
General Manager Brett Stonestreet said while it was good to see people abiding by stay-at-home orders, this has impacted daily trade.
"Local businesses eligible for COVID-19 relief payments should investigate the various support packages available," Mr Stonestreet said.
"Council understands the cancellation of so many tourism generating events such as Spring Fest and the Italian Festival, also impacts the local economy and we look forward to helping reinvigorate business activity once restrictions ease, hopefully in time to leverage and assist in boosting Christmas trade."
Griffith City Council is reminding local businesses impacted by COVID-19 restrictions that support is available. Your business may be eligible for one of the following relief payments:
COVID-19 SUPPORT FOR SMALL BUSINESSES
One-off cashflow support payments of up to $15,000 are available to businesses with an annual turnover of $75,000 or more. If your business has lost more than 30% of income you may be eligible. Find more details here: https://www.service.nsw.gov.au/transaction/2021-covid-19-business-grant
COVID-19 SUPPORT FOR MICRO BUSINESSES
Fortnightly support grants of $1,500 are available to businesses with an annual turnover of $30,000 to $75,000. To find out if your business is eligible and register your interest. More details here: https://www.service.nsw.gov.au/transaction/2021-covid-19-micro-business-grant
COVID-19 ASSISTANCE FOR ACCOMMODATION PROVIDERS
Support payments are available to accommodation providers who have lost room bookings over the school holidays.
COVID-19 SUPPORT FOR CREATIVE ARTS SECTOR
Support payments are available for businesses in the creative arts sector to help with the cost of rescheduling performances.
