The Victorian government is providing $60 million for eligible public-facing small businesses to improve ventilation. This assistance has been created to help small businesses follow new guidance on building ventilation and reduce the risk of spreading COVID-19 and keeping their customers safe.

Two types of assistance will be available through the program:

• Ventilation Rebate – A $500 rebate for public-facing small businesses to undertake immediate actions such as purchasing equipment or hiring a qualified tradesperson to undertake minor services to improve ventilation in areas accessible to customers.
• Ventilation Grant – Matched grants of $1,000 to $5,000 to enable public-facing small businesses who employ staff to invest in larger projects such as building works, engaging professional services or equipment to improve ventilation in areas accessible to customers.

Applications are now open through 24 June 2022 at 11:59 pm or until all funds have been used.