The State Government will provide $500 electricity credits for small businesses and charities that have been impacted by the five-day COVID-19 lockdown, providing an expected $43 million in relief.

The electricity credit is expected to apply to approximately 85,000 Synergy and Horizon Power customers in the Perth and Peel regions and provide an average of two months electricity bill relief.

Premier Mark McGowan said for those businesses and charities that would otherwise be eligible but have their electricity account managed by their lessors, a process would be put in place to enable them to access the grant.

“The State Government will continue to monitor the impact on businesses, and we will do what we can if further support is needed, but as always our number one focus has been to get businesses open and our economy going at full capacity,” McGowan added.

The relief measure came after CCIWA wrote to Mark McGowan seeking more clarity, and compensation, for businesses affected by lockdown and the transition period to follow.

CCIWA CEO Chris Rodwell said the electricity grant was an important first step, but “does not come close to covering the full cost of lockdown”.

“CCIWA has been providing input to the Government throughout the week and it is essential the Government remains open to further relief,” he added.

“Potential options may be to provide tax relief, cash flow support or the waiver of government fees and charges. Businesses in accommodation, hospitality and manufacturing have outlined tough operating conditions.”

Read our media release about getting WA back to business here.