Newcastle business owners are being reminded there is still rate relief available from City of Newcastle.
Those impacted by light rail construction can receive a share of $400,000 from Council, but so far 102 applications have resulted in the payout of just $37,000.
Rebates have been returned to 95 applicants in the first 10 weeks of the program, which is open for the duration of the 2018/19 financial year.
To be eligible for the scheme, a CBD business needs the property owner to have paid their first quarterly rates, which were due in August.
Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes says the helping hand has been available since July, but many traders must be unaware of it.
"The state government hasn't given compensation to the businesses affected by light rail construction but this is something that Council's been able to do and still be able to deliver a $100 million works budget through the city," she said.
"There are hundreds of local small businesses that are yet to apply for rate relief. Clearly many are unaware that the funding exists....The process of application is straight forward, and businesses can apply at any time throughout the current financial year," the Lord Mayor continued.
Anyone interested should complete an application form together with details of tenants (with their signature) where applicable.
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| Long slog: Transport Minister Andrew Constance in Newcastle to unveil the first light rail vehicle for testing. |
