A South Fremantle patisserie has become the first business to receive a rebate for money spent on new chairs and an expanded alfresco area as part of the State Government’s COVID-19 response.

The Activating Alfresco Rebate Program allows small businesses, including cafés, bars, pubs, restaurants and hotels, to apply for a rebate of up to $5000 for the cost of alfresco purchases. These could include furniture, weather protection, art, and lighting.

Staff at Patisserie La Vespa on the popular South Terrace strip received the good news when Local Government Minister John Carey dropped by in May.

“The Activating Alfresco program is a fantastic way to give small businesses such as Patisserie La Vespa a lift, revitalising their outdoor area and re-activating our spaces,” he said.

“We know during COVID more people have wanted to dine outdoors, and these grants will not only support small businesses by assisting them to expand their alfresco footprint, but help activate our local streets.

“The rebates have already enabled several Western Australian small businesses to expand their operations, supporting their growth and adding vibrancy to our neighbourhoods.

“We’ve seen a lot of interest to date from across the entire State, but I want to encourage eligible small businesses to consider applying for a rebate to expand their alfresco area, and give more Western Australians the confidence to dine out in a COVID-safe environment.

“I have long championed activating our streets and support more alfresco dining and Local Government’s need to be playing a significant role in assisting small businesses to grow by cutting red tape and facilitating more outdoor and street dining.

“I know many Local Governments have been working hard in this space, and I want to give them a shout out for facilitating positive outcomes for small businesses in their community.”

To date, more than 400 applications have been received from across the State, including regional hospitality businesses in the South West, Great Southern, Wheatbelt, Mid West and the Kimberley.

The Activating Alfresco program is part of the State Government’s $67 million COVID-19 Business Assistance Package, enabling eligible businesses to expand their COVID-safe dining out spaces.