Any sole trader or small-business owner that has completed a free eligible safety event or webinar with SafeWork NSW is eligible to apply for the rebate program.
The NSW government will deliver its 2020–21 budget on 17 November following a deferral from its original March date due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Since the start of the pandemic, the NSW government has pushed for businesses to comply with COVID-safe requirements, most recently considering the mandatory use of QR codes over complacency concerns at some Sydney restaurants.
Minister for Better Regulation Kevin Anderson said the $500 safety rebate can be used towards a wide variety of items and equipment to make workplaces healthier and safer.
“We’ve made sure this program benefits every type of small business, whether you need hygiene items, signage, trolleys or ladders, we’ve got you covered,” Mr Anderson said.
“It’s been great to see a huge uptake of these rebates, which is why we’ve decided to continue the program. This year, the NSW government has passed new reforms to strengthen workplace health and safety legislation in the state.
“These rebates help ensure safety isn’t cost prohibitive for small business and help them implement the right safety measures to prioritise the safety of their workers.”
Minister for Small Business Damien Tudehope said the rebate program will help small businesses continue to prioritise safety even with the stressors of the pandemic.
“It’s not been an easy year for our businesses, especially for start-ups and smaller-scale companies. This program is a way for us to ensure safety doesn’t take a back seat,” Mr Tudehope said.
Eligible NSW business owners can apply for the rebate by clicking here.
