Victorian alpine businesses are breathing a sigh of relief after the state government announced additional financial assistance targeted for the industry.
Mount Hotham Chamber of Commerce president Steve Belli has been lobbying for more support after many businesses could not access previous grants because of the eligibility criteria.
[This is] what we've been asking for."
Yesterday, the government announced a $32.2 million tourism package, with $4.4 million of that for a targeted Alpine Support program.
On-mountain operators will be eligible for grants of up to $15,000 and off-mountain operators can access grants of $5,000, which Mr Belli says will go a long way in helping with start-up costs and getting things ready for the opening weekend.
"It's a big deal," he said.
Not the start they hoped for
The snow season officially opens this coming weekend but resorts are already severely impacted by Victoria's current COVID-19 restrictions preventing Melbournians from traveling.
Acting Premier James Merlino acknowledged these challenges.
Mr Belli says bookings have drastically dropped as a result.
"[Bookings have] gone down from 100 per cent to somewhere between 25 to 35 per cent depending on where you are," he said.
"Hopefully we see a few more interstate and regional people come up and enjoy the opening weekend."
Mr Belli is still lobbying to have last year's mandatory service charge fees discounted to reflect the number of days businesses operate for.
"We know we're not the only ones suffering," he said.
