Ku-ring-gai businesses impacted by school COVID safety measures in late 2021 now have access to a grant program to help them get back on track for 2022.

The $14 million grant program will be available to businesses whose services schools were restricted from accessing in Term 4 of 2021. The restrictions primarily impacted overnight camp providers and music education instructors and services.

Alister Henskens SC MP said the grants will be available to businesses in the Ku-ring-gai region that rely on schools for income and provide educational experiences for students.

“I’m really pleased to see this Government step in and support the business that have been hit hard by COVID-19 over the past two years – especially ones that provide crucial educational experiences to our students,” Mr Henskens said.

Eligible businesses and not for profit organisations will be able to apply for one-off payments equal to 40 per cent of their decline in Term 4 2021 turnover compared to previous years, up to $15,000.

Minister for Education and Early Learning Sarah Mitchell said the grants would offer a much needed lifeline for these business in Ku-ring-gai to refocus on delivering quality programs for NSW school students.

“Camps and music programs give students incredible experiences that create lasting memories and can have a profound impact on their development. We need these businesses to continue to provide this to Ku-ring-gai students,” Ms Mitchell said.

 “The grants will be available through the Service NSW app and be easy for the businesses to jump in and apply quickly. We want Ku-ring-gai businesses to receive support and be able to get back on their feet as soon as possible.”

Guidelines for the grants will be available in February, with businesses expected to apply for grants in April through their Service NSW for Business profile.