The government has allocated $40 million from the business support fund for pubs, clubs and restaurants that have an annual turnover of less than $50 million — but aren't covered by the commercial tenancy relief scheme — for rent relief.
Minister for the Co-ordination of Jobs, Precincts and Regions: COVID-19 Martin Pakula said it was essential to the state's recovery that venues across the state were looked after.
“Pubs and clubs are a vital part of Victorian life and it’s important that size does not mean that operators are locked out of support and protections in lease negotiations,” he said.
“We are supporting Victorian businesses so they can emerge from this crisis in the best shape possible and quickly rebuild their workforce.”
Free mediation services through the Victorian Small Business Commission available under the Commercial Tenancy Relief Scheme will be extended to all tenants who hold a liquor licence, regardless of their size — helping tenants reach agreement with their landlord regarding rent relief during the pandemic.
The Victorian Small Business Commission will monitor the operation of these arrangements and provide advice to the government.
If required, the government may seek further legislative changes, enforced retrospectively to March 29 to ensure these tenants are protected.
The government will form a steering committee drawing membership from bodies including the Australian Hotels Association, Community Clubs Victoria, Music Victoria, the Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and Restaurant and Catering Association Victoria to advise on the operation of the fund.
Former Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry chief executive Mark Stone will chair the taskforce.
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