Thursday 26 March 20 20
COUNCIL TO FURTHER ASSIST RATEPAYERS AND BUSINESSES
DURING COVID -19 CRISIS
The City of Ryde has announced a range of cash stimulus and financial assistance measures to
assist member s of the community cope with the significant challenges posed by the coronavirus
(COVID -19) outbreak.
A $500,000 Eastwood Small Business Hardship Fund Program will provide support grants of up to
$2,000 for eligible business es in Eastwood that ha ve experienced economic hardship since the first
case of COVID -19 was identified in Australia in January.
Applications for the fund will open next week after the proposal was placed on public exhibition and
endorsed by Council. More than 16 0 submissions were received during public consultation and the
majority of respondents provided supportive sentiments.
In response to the requirement for cafes, bars and restaurants to close their dining -in services.
Council resolved to take steps to waive fees for outdoor dining over the next six months and also
consider all applications for rent deferrals from café and restaurant owners operating from a Council
premise s.
City of Ryde Mayo r, Clr Jerome Laxale, said the City of Ryde would be the first local government
agency to implement a cash stimulus in the local economy as a result of COVID -19.
“Given the magnitude of this crisis, we have made the decision to act quickly and decisively to provide
appropriate support to the local economy. This is likely to be the biggest economic challenge they will
ever face, and it is clear that our community want Council to support them where possible,” Clr Laxale
said.
“Council staff will get the bal l rolling on the Hardship Fund so that we can get these funds directly to
local businesses as soon as possible.”
To assist ratepayers, Council will fast -track a process for financial hardship applications to be
received in regard to the payments of rates. Council will also review its other fees and charges.
In addition, Council will also waive cancellation fees for swim schools and swimming carnival s that
were due to be held at the Ryde Aquatic Leisure Centre between January and March this year.
Clr Laxale said Council will continually try and identify ways to support everyone in the community
throughout the COVID -19 crisis.
