Omicron Support For Business Welcome

BusinessNZ welcomes today's announcement of financial support for businesses during the Omicron outbreak.

BusinessNZ Chief Executive Kirk Hope says it's encouraging to see more support from Government and a signal from the Prime Minister as to when restrictions may begin to ease, once Omicron has peaked.

"These are positive signs for business, and useful while planning ahead. But it’s crucial the Government continues to monitor the impact of existing restrictions on business and provide additional support when needed.

To be eligible for support, businesses must prove a 40 percent drop in revenue in seven consecutive days, within the six weeks prior to the shift to Phase 2 (February 15), compared to seven days after that date.

"We need to ensure these rules won’t exclude businesses with already low trading due to the cumulative effects of Covid-related restrictions. Industries like hospitality, retail and tourism have endured two years of decimated revenue now.

"For those who have survived, it’s important they can actually access support."

Changes are also being made to the Small Business Cashflow Loans Scheme so eligible businesses can access a top up loan which allows an additional $10,000 draw down, with five years to repay.

Inland Revenue has been granted flexibility for tax payment dates and terms to assist businesses with cashflow pressures too.

"I encourage all businesses to look into what’s available and make the most of the support they’re entitled to," Mr Hope says

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