New COVID Support Package (announced 13 July 2021)
Prime Minister Scott Morrison said the Greater Sydney is “more severe, more dangerous and more protracted" (read about the latest NSW restrictions here) and has announced a new disaster payment package with the NSW Government for NSW workers and businesses.
Payments for Workers
From 18 July 2021 the current COVID 19 Disaster Payment of $350 will be increased to $600 per week if you have lost more than 20 hours per week.
If you have lost between 8 and 20 hours you can access a $375 weekly payment.
This will be available to everyone in NSW, not just those in Greater Sydney. You can access the payment online via Services Australia.
Payments to Employers
Businesses, organisations and not-for-profits with an annual turnover of between $75,000 and $50 million who can demonstrate a 30% decline in turnover will receive payments of between $1,500 and $10,000 per week.
To receive the payment employers must maintain their full time, part-time and long term casual staffing level as of 13 July 2021.
Find out more at ServiceNSW.
Payments to Sole Traders
Sole Traders who can demonstrate a 30% decline in turnover can also receive $1,000 per week. Find out more at ServiceNSW.
Mental Health Package
An additional $17.35 million will be provided as part of a mental health package for NSW.
- A boost for crisis and mental health services including for Lifeline, free 24-hour support via Sonder and counselling for perinatal depression and anxiety
- Funding for mental health support for vulnerable and culturally and linguistically diverse communities
- Assistance for young people through headspace, Kids Helpline and the Butterfly Foundation
Renters and homelessness
The NSW Government also announced a moratorium on evictions for 60 days, rebates for landlords to help cover rent reductions, and 4000 temporary accommodation spots for those sleeping rough.
See more from the Prime Minister's Press Release: https://www.pm.gov.au/media/nsw-covid-19-support-package-0