While COVID-19 is having far-reaching impacts across the events sector, the list of resources and support for businesses and event professionals is growing.
Here, we’re sharing some of the best support services, government packages and free resources to help you and your business through this time.
This list will be updated as more resources are made available. Get in touch to share your support services with our audience.
Beyond Blue’s free coronavirus support service
Beyond Blue has launched a free support service to help all Australians, including small business owners, cope with the impacts of COVID-19.
The dedicated service, funded by the Australian Government, features a range of information, strategies and advice to help support social and emotional wellbeing.
The resources include support for small business owners, people who have lost their job, health workers, parents and anyone in self-isolation. Find out more here.
JobKeeper payment
The Federal Government’s $130 billion JobKeeper wage subsidy payment has now passed through parliament, making it the single largest piece of government spending in Australian history.
Under the new package, businesses and sole-traders affected by COVID-19 can receive $1,500 per employee, per fortnight to help keep people in jobs.
To find out if your business is eligible for the subsidy, or to apply, click here.
Find out how event professionals reacted to the support package here.
WFH tax shortcut
The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) recently announced a new tax shortcut, making it easier for people to claim deductions for working from home.
The new arrangement will allow people to claim a rate of 80 cents per hour for all their running expenses, rather than needing to calculate costs for specific running expenses.
Read our full breakdown of the initiative here.
TAFE NSW’s free short courses
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, TAFE NSW is offering a series of fee-free short courses in conjunction with the NSW Government.
Open to NSW residents over the age of 17, the courses can be completed in just days or weeks, offering practical skills and experiences across a range of industries.
The courses are perfect for those looking to upskill while business is quiet or for people considering a new career path.
View the full list of fee-free short courses here.
Free hospitality and event sales consulting
Hospitality and event sales consulting agency We Surge is offering free services to help businesses through the COVID-19 pandemic.
On the back of a successful series of webinars, We Surge founder Bree Wailes will offer four weeks of free consulting services to four businesses in the hospitality and event industries.
The weekly consulting service is valued at $2000 per business and aims to kick-start the recovery program for your business.
Register your interest here.
Free employee recognition program
To help businesses and employees doing it tough, EVT Incentive Marketing is offering free access to its Xtend employee recognition program for six months.
Free access includes no user fees for six months and the ability to opt in or out afterwards, your own branded recognition platform, plus access to reporting and program management.
Find out more here.