The state's peak business organisation, Business NSW, believes that more can be done by local councils to ensure local businesses don't disappear from regional and suburban communities as the coronavirus pandemic takes its toll.
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While the Federal and State Governments have been quick to act and generous with their support packages, some of the local councils across NSW don't seem as keen on helping their business communities as well as they probably can.
In saying that, some local councils have really stepped up to the mark. City of Sydney support has set the 'gold standard', introducing a suite of relief measures which will offer genuine benefit. In addition to waiving fees, freeing up carparking, fast tracking $25 million in capital works and creating $10,000 grants for eligible businesses to transition business models, and set up ecommerce platforms.
Some other local council initiatives include:
- Encouraged local business to provide goods and services to a local council, with a favourable local procurement preference and seven-day payment times
- Waiving of fees for commercial use of footpaths, health and building inspections, parking fees and reduced fees on cattle yards
- Introduced rental relief for operators at airports and other government owned buildings
- Fast tracking capital works, and processing development applications online
- Clear financial hardship policies with rates and interest freezes
However, businesses from across the region are reporting frustration in their dealings with some local councils. Even the most basic of enquiries, such as a financial hardship requests, are being stifled as many local councils don't have public hardship policies to support their community.
Of course, like everyone, local councils have been hit hard by the pandemic, and they are not immune to tightening their belts and reducing staff and resulting services. Thinking smarter there are many pro-business measures, like an online directory of trading businesses, which could be implemented with little cost.
I've heard some great anecdotes about local councils, like Tamworth Regional Council, which have turned off parking meters so residents can quickly get to supermarkets and medical centres without worrying about constantly filling the meters. At the same time, those same residents are likely to purchase something from a small business that has remained open.
Or like Armidale Regional Council, which are processing development applications through online meetings to ensure projects aren't unnecessarily delayed. The economic benefits of a strong pipeline of infrastructure projects will flow on and keep our small businesses trading.
Likewise, Narrabri Shire have introduced a handy booklet to help businesses contact and navigate the ever-changing business environment. Supporting small businesses to access Government support, will help build the foundations for the business to return after restrictions are lifted.
Another positive approach is Inverell Shire Council, which have introduced a 'Small Business Enhancement Grant' of between $500 and $10,000. This grant can be used to enhance their business operations through an e-commerce platform, updated website or improved instore technology. Supporting small businesses to pivot and transition through these uncertain times, may leave the Inverell community even stronger once the restrictions have been lifted.
It's the local councils that embrace and support a vibrant business community which will benefit the most when things return to normal. Business owners will want to re-open and re-invest in a Local Government Area that is supportive of enterprise.
Joe Townsend is the Regional Manager - New England North West for Business NSW
