Grant applications today opened for businesses directly impacted by COVID-19 restrictions over the festive season, with up to $12,500 per business available.

The Small Business Assistance Grant — December 2021 will assist small businesses and sole traders in the hospitality and events sectors that meet the eligibility criteria.

Businesses must be located in the Perth and Peel region and demonstrate a reduction in turnover of at least 30 per cent between December 23, 2021, and January 4, 2022, compared to the same 11-day period last year.

Other criteria include:

• An annual turnover of more than $50,000.
• A valid and active Australian Business Number (ABN).
• An Australia-wide payroll of less than $4 million in the 2020-21 financial year.
• Operate in the hospitality sector, the music events industry or the creative and performing arts sectors that were directly impacted by the restrictions.

The final payment will be based upon the number of days that a business was impacted over the period. Employing businesses may receive $1130 for each impacted day, while sole traders may receive $400 for each impacted day.

Small businesses can check their eligibility and apply online at https://www.smallbusiness.wa.gov.au, with payments expected to commence by the end of January.

Applications must be received by 4:00pm Thursday, March 2022.

“A fast-track facility has also been introduced to streamline payments and ensure businesses can get financial support as quickly as possible,” he said.