Support for business and workers during the COVID-19

The Department of Employment, Small Business and Training wants to keep you informed of the latest assistance from the Queensland and Australian Governments in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

As of 29th July 2020.

Businesses, activities and undertakings direction (No. 5) from the Chief Health Officer— Patrons in food and drink venues are again required to be seated when eating or drinking and additional guidance is available for event organisers.

24 July Statement from the National Cabinet— A Domestic Border Control Freight Movement Protocol has been agreed. This will allow freight to move safely and efficiently and further work will be carried out to minimise COVID-19 risks for workers and the community.

New COVID-19 hotspots declared— All local government areas in the Sydney area have been added to the list of declared COVID-19 hotspots. Border restrictions will apply from 1.00am on Saturday 1 August 2020.

Additional cost of living relief to roll out — from 1 September 2020, the Queensland Government will apply another $50 credit to household power bills. This is in addition to the $200 rebates which are currently being applied.

Extension to COVID fee waivers for National Park tourism operators — The Queensland Government is extending support for tourism operators conducting commercial activities in National Parks until September 30, under its Immediate Industry Recovery Package.

Gradual return of mutual obligation requirements for jobseekers — From 4 August, jobseekers must be willing to accept any offer of suitable paid work along with other requirements.

Superannuation guarantee amnesty ends on 7 September — The Australian Tax Office is reminding businesses that the super guarantee amnesty is a one-off opportunity to correct past unpaid super guarantee amounts and avoid significant penalties. The six month amnesty for employers will end on Monday 7 September 2020.

Tax Time 2020 toolkit for small business — The Australian Tax Office has developed a directory and factsheets for small businesses, as part of their support for the sector.