Benjamin Millar
Maribyrnong council has promised a further $1 million in support towards helping those hardest hit by the COVID-19 pandemic.
The $1 million pandemic recovery package, approved at last week’s council meeting, includes an extension of rate relief, support for local businesses and fee waivers for eligible community organisations.
The Community Strengthening Food Relief and Support program will be extended and about $200,000 originally allocated for the 2021 New Year’s Eve fireworks display will be redirected towards the recovery of key trader districts.
Night markets will return to Footscray over summer and a small grants program will support place-making activities to attract visitors and support business recovery.
The new $1 million package takes the council’s total allocation since April last year to $12 million.
Mayor Michael Clarke said although rising vaccination rates are driving progress towards a return to some form of normality, many in the community are struggling with the impacts of COVID-19.
“Economic losses are mounting and there is no doubt the repercussions of the pandemic will continue to be felt for months, if not for years to come,” he said.
“Experts are predicting at least a four year period for recovery, and we want to do everything we can to support our community through this.”
Cr Clarke said localised support over the previous 18 month has included rates deferrals, the Community Connectors initiative, arts grants and the waiving of sports facility lease and license costs.
“We have also provided increased services such as city amenity and cleansing programs, online library story times, tutorials and author talks, and home delivered books and material,” he said.
Star Weekly last week reported that Hobsons Bay council will also deliver more than $1 million in extra support for local businesses and residents hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Targeted at businesses, the council’s fifth community support package since the pandemic began last year takes to almost $11 million the council’s total investment in COVID support.
