Hospitality businesses across the Castle Hill electorate can now register for the NSW Government’s $5000 Alfresco Restart Rebate, with the program now live.

Member for Castle Hill Ray Williams MP said small and medium-sized businesses which are opening or expanding alfresco dining areas may be eligible for the rebate.

“We know being outside is the safest way to enjoy ourselves during the pandemic, and this rebate will make it easier for local businesses to embrace everything outdoor dining has to offer,” Mr Williams said.

“The $25.5 million program will see the dreams of business owners of turning their courtyard into a café or expanding to serve a summer curbside chardonnay into a reality.

“Applying for the rebate can be done online and once the registration has been approved, businesses will be able to claim it through their Business Profile from late February.”

Mr Williams said the funding was part of the NSW Government’s $66 million Alfresco Restart Package.

“We’ve removed the regulatory roadblocks, and now these grants will help outdoor dining flourish across our community with funds to make simple changes like better lighting or electrical connections,” Mr Williams said.

Businesses are encouraged to get onboard as soon as possible as the $5000 rebate is capped to the first 5000 successful applicants.

Hospitality businesses will be able to claim eligible expenses incurred from 14 October 2021 to 30 April 2022. Claims must be made by 30 April 2022.

For more information on the Alfresco Restart Rebate visit https://www.nsw.gov.au/projects/outdoor-dining