The Prime Minister, Treasurer and Minister Cash today met with small business groups, including a number of small business representatives from bushfire affected regions in the Cabinet room at Parliament House today to discuss the Federal Government’s assistance in the recovery from the devastating bushfires. 

The Government listened to the concerns and ideas raised from those on the ground in bushfire affected regions with more than 70 local and national representatives in Canberra and dialling into the meeting.

Whilst the fires continue to burn in some areas and clean-up efforts continue in others, many of the local businesses are encouraging their fellow Australians to pay them a visit and spend time in their communities. 

Small business representatives agreed that cash flow is critical for small business during this period of recovery.

There are currently a number of grants already available for small businesses through the Disaster Recovery Payments which can be found at www.disasterassist.gov.au    

Hearing the concerns of those in the room and on the phone the Prime Minister committed to further support for small businesses, to be announced in the coming days. 

The Morrison Government has always supported small businesses as the backbone of the economy and we are determined to work with state and local counterparts to assist with those affected by these devastating bushfires. 

We will continue to provide support and assistance on the ground in these areas in the months ahead as the recovery process evolves.