Michaelia Cash (WA, Liberal Party, Minister for Employment, Skills, Small and Family Business) Share this | Hansard source

I thank Senator Davey for her question. I think one of the most tragic things that occurred during the bushfires was not only, obviously, the loss of life but also the devastating impact that these bushfires have had on the backbone of so many of these communities, the small and family businesses. I have met with a number of them. I have spoken with so many of them.

I've met with the peak bodies. And, as a result of their feedback, the government has put together a comprehensive suite of measures to support small and family businesses that have been impacted by the devastating bushfires.

In terms of the package, what it is designed to do is make it easier both for those who have suffered direct damage as a result of the fires and for those who've also been, indirectly, economically impacted following the bushfires. It's all about assisting them, the backbone of these communities, get back on their feet. As a result of listening to the communities, listening to small businesses, the package deals with the challenges that we know these businesses are facing at this point in time.

Our immediate priorities include grant funding—including top-up grant funding of up to $50,000 to eligible small businesses and not-for-profit organisations. This was really important, providing the access to concessional loans, up to half a million dollars for businesses that have suffered significant asset loss or significant loss of revenue as a result of the fires. What we have done with the loans is ensure that there is a two-year repayment holiday, and no interest will accrue during this time. This is a comprehensive package and it is designed to get them back on their feet.