Wednesday 5th August 2020

Pandemic leave payments to start for Victoria

The Federal Government has announced, via Services Australia, that it is to introduce a pandemic leave disaster payment of $1,500 a fortnight for workers without sick leave who need to self-isolate.

To be jointly funded by state governments declared in a “disaster”, the new $1,500 payment is intended to “supplement and support” Victoria’s existing payment system by covering the fortnight of self-isolation after a positive result. The fastest way to claim is to call Services Australia on 180 22 66. More details are here.

Working permits required from tonight

From 11.59pm Wednesday 5 August 2020, Victorian employers that require their staff to attend a place of work must issue each staff member with a worker permit.

See this Business Victoria web page for eligibility and for the permit template.

Stage 4 law means operational businesses must have COVID Safe Plan

Under Victoria’s Stage 4 restrictions, there are new requirements for businesses. Certain services and industries will be able to remain operational and will be required by law to have a COVID Safe Plan.

Every employer must complete this plan by 11.59pm 7 August 2020. See this web page for guidance, templates and conditions.

Strict new procedures for Victorian flights to NSW

The NSW Government has announced that a strict permit system will be in place for all flights arriving in NSW from Victoria, with all passengers undergoing police and health checks on arrival.

The new health measures in place for all Victorian flights will help stop the spread of COVID-19 in NSW.

Commercial tenancy relief scheme

Through Business Victoria, the Commercial tenancy relief scheme will provide the following support:

• a six-month moratorium on commercial tenancy evictions from 29 March 2020 for the non-payment of rent for small to medium enterprises with an annual turnover under $50 million that have experienced a minimum 30 per cent reduction in turnover due to coronavirus (COVID-19)
• freeze on rent increases during the moratorium for commercial tenants
• a rental payment waiver or deferral proportionate to commercial tenants’ income reduction due to coronavirus (COVID-19), to be negotiated between tenant and landlord
• a mediation service for commercial tenants and landlords to support fair tenancy negotiations.

Tax relief — landlords, businesses

The Victorian Government has announced a range of tax relief measures – land tax relief, payroll tax relief, liquor licence fee relief and motor vehicle duty relief – in response to coronavirus (COVID-19).

The Treasurer has directed the Commissioner of State Revenue to give effect to these measures. In addition to these measures, the State Revenue Office is assisting people affected by the pandemic by remitting penalties and interest charged on some assessments and providing interest-free instalment plans.

Source: Tax & Super Australia https://www.taxandsuperaustralia.com.au/ , Wednesday 5th August 2020 e-newsletter.