I’m a sole trader. What do I need to know about the COVID-19 micro-business grant? 

The COVID-19 micro-business grant is intended as a last resort for the smallest of businesses in NSW that cannot access any other government support. Micro-businesses, including sole traders, who use their company as a primary source of income could be eligible to receive $1,500 per fortnight while stay-at-home restrictions are in place. To qualify for this grant, you must:

• Have an annual turnover of between $30,000 to $75,000
• Be able to demonstrate a decline in turnover of at least 30 percent across a minimum fortnightly period within the Greater Sydney lockdown period (which began 26 June) compared to the same period in 2019
• Submit a letter from your registered accountant or BAS agent that verifies the drop in turnover

In some cases, non-employing businesses that aren’t eligible for this grant could instead receive a Commonwealth COVID-19 Disaster Payment. Head to Services Australia for more information on this support measure.