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Working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples

Boost to Indigenous Businesses and Communities – COVID-19

Boost to Indigenous Businesses and Communities – COVID-19

Indigenous Affairs Coronavirus (COVID-19)
Thursday, 02 April 2020

National Indigenous Australians Agency

The Australian Government has announced more support for Indigenous businesses and communities to help them during, and after, the Coronavirus (COVID-19) crisis.

Over the next two years, $123 million will support Indigenous businesses, the workforce and communities to continue their activities as soon as it is safe to do so.

If you own a business affected by the crisis, you can get specialist advice and help to access the different support packages available from the Government.

Up to $25 million will target regions and industries facing workforce losses—helping employers and  Indigenous job seekers access short-term employment initiatives.

While travel restrictions are in place, $10 million will help the Northern Territory Land Councils address immediate infrastructure needs and travel expenses associated with people returning to homelands.

Up to $10 million will boost Community Night Patrols to maintain safety and ensure travel restrictions and physical distancing requirements are adhered to.

$23 million will improve the delivery of critical social support programs, including alcohol and other drug services, social and emotional wellbeing projects, family support and youth engagement and diversion programs.

Up to $5 million will expand the school nutrition program in the Northern Territory, so meal deliveries can continue during school closures and holiday periods. The program will also extend to vulnerable families and the elderly where required.

More information on the new measures is available on Minister for Indigenous Australians, The Hon Ken Wyatt AM MP, media release.