Support package available for residents suffering financial impact of Orange lockdown

The three Local Government Areas were plunged into lockdown last Wednesday, the snap seven-day stay-at-home orders a forced measure in the wake of a positive COVID-19 case being infectious in Orange - five sites were identified - on July 16 and July 17.

Mr Barilaro said a range of measures, including financial support from the NSW Government and the Commonwealth Government, is available to eligible residents and small businesses impacted by the Greater Sydney and Central West restrictions.

"The Service NSW website has information about COVID-19 support for businesses, which includes personalised support, mental health and general wellbeing, commercial lease support and other financial assistance," Mr Barilaro said.

He said applications for JobSaver and the COVID-19 Micro Business Grants will open on the Service NSW website on Monday, July 26, as part of the NSW Government's $5.1 billion joint economic support package with the Commonwealth.

Minister for Small Business Damien Tudehope said business owners could contact Service NSW and speak with a Business Concierge who could provide information about available COVID-19, including help applying for grants and understanding regulations.

"In addition to contacting Service NSW, businesses experiencing financial hardship should also speak with their bank about a range of support measures on offer, such as repayment deferrals, merchant fee refunds and other fee waivers," Mr Tudehope said.

Since the region was placed into lockdown, no new cases of COVID-19 have been identified. The only case in any of the three LGAs is the positive case that was infectious in the community last week.

There's been over 35,000 tests conducted throughout the lockdown.

Information about the COVID-19 Disaster Payment, which provides financial support for workers who have lost income due to COVID-19 restrictions is also available on the Services Australia website.

For information about NSW Government COVID-19 support measures, go to: https://www.nsw.gov.au/covid-19/2021-covid-19-support-package

For information about the Australian Government's COVID-19 support payments, go to www.servicesaustralia.gov.au/covid19

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