COVID-19
The COVID-19 global pandemic has impacted us all and during turbulent times like these, many in the community are feeling worried, anxious and overwhelmed. Most City of Karratha facilities have been closed due to the current restrictions from the WA State Government and many businesses have been forced to shut down for an extended period too. Many people are working from home, the NBN is doing its job and we cannot stand too close to friends or acquaintances – strange times indeed!
The City of Karratha is doing all in its power to assist our community with support packages for individuals, small business and community groups. Our initiatives include:
For Small Business:
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Freezing rates and existing City fees and charges in 2020/21 (zero percent increase)
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Implementing opportunities to spend additional City resources on local suppliers and contractors
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Establishing an online portal and social media advertising campaign to encourage spending at local businesses
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Waiving rents for small business tenants of City properties for six months
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Establishing a network of City officers to provide one-on-one support to businesses to provide information on the latest State and Federal support initiatives
For individuals:
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Modifying the City’s Financial Hardship (Rates Relief) Policy to provide increased access to debt write off for individuals
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Freezing rates and existing City fees and charges in 2020/21 (zero percent increase)
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Deferring the collection of rates from all ratepayers excluding schedule (bulk) ratepayers from August to November 2020 (three-month extension)
For community groups and organisations:
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Establishing a new COVID-19 Community Group Assistance Fund
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Allocating $250,000 from the Biannual Community Grant Scheme to the COVID-19 Community Group Assistance Fund
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Providing grants of up to $25,000 per community group or organisation via the COVID-19 Community Group Assistance Fund
If you need assistance, please do not hesitate to call the City on 9186 8555 or visit our information page https://karratha.wa.gov.au/coronavirus-information