New City of Wanneroo funds support community and business recovery

Economic Recovery Fund

The City is now accepting applications for free business advice and support available through industry experts across a range of services including strategy, marketing, social media, website design and financial advice. Alternatively, those who have incurred advice or training costs since 1 March 2020 may be eligible for a rebate of up to 50%, capped at $500.

Wanneroo Mayor Tracey Roberts said the City understands that the pandemic has significantly impacted the local economy.

“The City of Wanneroo is continuing to stand with our valued local businesses during this very difficult period,” said Mayor Roberts.

“The new Economic Recovery Fund is yet another important way in which businesses can seek assistance from the City.”

Other business support initiatives include an ongoing #SupportWannerooLocal digital campaign, rent abatements and a rates relief package for commercial and industrial ratepayers.

The development of the Economic Recovery Fund was informed by an extensive survey of local businesses undertaken by the City in April 2020.

The provision of quality advice will assist businesses in the transition following COVID-19, helping them adapt and overcome the challenges presented during the pandemic.

To meet the eligibility criteria, businesses must:

• Be a micro, small or medium business (with one to 199 employees) located within the City of Wanneroo;
• Have a valid and active Australian Business Number (ABN), registered prior to 1 January 2020;
• Be able to demonstrate the business has been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic; and
• Not be receiving funding from any other source for the same project or initiative.

To find out more and to apply, please visit the City’s website.

Community Response and Recovery Fund

The new Community Response and Recovery Fund will support the City’s most vulnerable residents and strengthen groups and clubs as the community reconnects after COVID-19.

The fund will support the continuation of essential community services, including not-for-profit and incorporated community groups who deliver food relief, community legal services, financial counselling and other services to support vulnerable residents.

The City will also support community groups and other relevant projects and events that enhance community recovery and connection.

Mayor Tracey Roberts said the new fund would provide crucial short term, immediate relief packages and longer-term support options for community groups and organisations.

“The community has been through a difficult and confronting time recently; we have experienced one of the worst bushfires in the City’s history, followed by a global pandemic,” Mayor Roberts said.

“Despite these challenges, the resilience of our residents, local businesses and community groups, and care for one another, has been outstanding.

“Throughout this challenging time, the City has stood side-by-side with our local community to provide vital support and services to those in need.”

To qualify for funding, applicants must:

• live, operate or deliver the activity within the City of Wanneroo;
• assist with the recovery of the local community in response to the COVID-19 pandemic;
• utilise funding to enable the delivery of a service or program, or support the resilience of a group or club that benefits City of Wanneroo residents; and
• be compatible with and complementary to the City’s values and strategic objectives.

The newly-established Community Response and Recovery Fund is in addition to the City’s $2 million recurring subsidy package, which is accessed by community groups and clubs to help them operate and thrive in their local area.

To find out more, please visit the City’s website.