Support for Local Businesses

Halls Gap reopened to visitors on Wednesday, January 8 with parts of Gariwerd (Grampians National Park) also reopening on Friday, January 10.

Thank you for your continued support as we acknowledge how difficult this event has been for you. Please do not hesitate to contact the Economic Development Team via business@ngshire.vic.gov.au or (03) 5358 9087 if you need assistance. 

The Economic Impact Survey for businesses is a critical tool in assessing the far-reaching impacts of the 2024-25 Grampians Bushfire which has caused significant devastation across the region. These impacts include economic, ecological, environmental, and physical and mental health challenges that profoundly affect community well-being.

The full scope of the disaster’s economic and social repercussions is still being assessed. Council is working closely with partner agencies, including Emergency Recovery Victoria, Regional Development Victoria, and Parks Victoria, to understand these challenges and guide recovery efforts. Your input is vital to shaping informed strategies for immediate recovery and building long-term resilience.

We encourage you to complete the survey online here. Council officers are also available to help you complete the survey should you need support. We can call you and explain things over the phone or alternatively sit with you in person to aid in completing the form.

Why Your Participation Matters

The data gathered through this survey will:

  • Help build a comprehensive understanding of the disaster’s ongoing impacts
  • Inform targeted actions to address immediate needs
  • Shape long-term recovery strategies to strengthen community and economic resilience

We sincerely appreciate your engagement and support during this challenging time. Together, we can rebuild and restore the vibrancy of our community and local economy.

Please contact the Economic Development Team via business@ngshire.vic.gov.au or by calling (03) 5358 9087 if you need assistance completing the form.

 

The Small Business Bus, which is operated by Business Victoria, will be visiting Halls Gap on Friday, February 14 from 9.30am to 4pm. 

Rural Financial Counselling Service, Northern Grampians Shire Council Rates Team and other business and community services will also be in attendance.

The Small Business Bus comes fully equipped with expert advisers to provide general business assistance. Virtual coaching sessions with expert business advisers are also available at a time that suits you if this date does not suit. Visit here for more information.

Please contact business@ngshire.vic.gov.au with your relevant contact details and preferred time/s to secure a spot.

You can read more about the Business Bus initiative here

CommBank

CommBank is providing Emergency Assistance to customers and businesses in bushfire-affected areas across Western Victoria. 

We understand each customer has different needs and encourage those affected to discuss their individual circumstances by either contacting us in the CommBank app, phoning 1800 314 695 or visiting their nearest CommBank branch, if safe to do so. Business customers can also call 1800 314 695 or speak with their dedicated CommBank relationship manager (where applicable). 

Special arrangements are in place to provide support to CommBank customers should they need it, and our teams are ready to assist them with any financial concerns or enquiries. 

For more information on the support we're providing to impacted communities, visit: commbank.com.au/support/natural-disasters

CommBank Emergency Assistance includes a range of options, including: 

  • Customised payment arrangements for home loans, credit card, personal loan and some business loans.
  • Waiving fees and charges.
  • Temporary overdrafts, additional loans or emergency credit limit increases (subject to credit approval).
  • Waiving fees and notice periods for early access to Term Deposits.
  • Emergency accommodation may be available for customers who have taken out Home Insurance provided by Hollard, distributed by CommBank, subject to policy terms and conditions.
  • Helping direct claims enquiries for customers seeking support through their Home Insurance provided by Hollard, distributed by CommBank.
  • Loan restructuring for business customers and existing loans. 
  • Waiving fees for temporary and damaged merchant EFTPOS terminals, as well as support with merchant terminal rental fees. 

 

Business Victoria

Factsheet-Prepare-Respond-and-Recover-from-Emergencies-2025-Version06012025.pdf(PDF, 96KB)

Victorian Small Business Commission

Guidance-requesting-support-during-hardship.pdf(PDF, 165KB)

Beyond Blue’s NewAccess for Small Business Owners (NASBO) is a guided self-help mental health coaching program. 

It’s free, confidential and convenient. Available nationally by phone or video call, no GP referral is required. 

Over 6 sessions, your mental health coach will work with you to manage stress and overwhelm using straightforward problem-solving approaches. All mental health coaches are specially trained and have a small business background, so they understand your unique challenges.

Who can enquire?

NewAccess might be right for you if you:

  • are 18 years or older
  • own a small business, or are a sole trader, with 20 employees or fewer
  • aren't currently seeing a psychologist or psychiatrist.

How do I enquire?

Richmond Fellowship Queensland (RFQ) delivers the NewAccess for Small Business Owners program. To enquire about NewAccess you can:

  • submit an online enquiry - here
  • by email at newaccess.smallbusiness@rfq.com.au
  • by phone on 1300 945 301
If you’re in crisis, NewAccess may not be right for you. For other support options, talk to your GP or visit Get mental health support.