South Australian small businesses, primary producers and non-profit organisations impacted by the recent bushfires on Kangaroo Island and at Cudlee Creek, as well as other SA regions, including Keilira in the state’s South-East and at Yorketown on the Yorke Peninsula, are  being invited to apply to the State Government for concessional loans to assist them rebuild or continue operating while the regions recover.  Eligible businesses will operate in the local government areas of Kangaroo Island, Adelaide Hills, Mount Barker, Murray Bridge, Mid Murray, Kingston and Yorke Peninsula.

Loans of up to $500,000, will be available to support eligible businesses restore and replace assets and property that have been significantly damaged in the fires.

They will also help cover working capital expenses – such as employee salaries, creditors, rent and rates – for businesses in bushfire affected-regions that have suffered a significant loss of income as a result of a downturn in trade due to, for example, reduced visitor numbers.

The loans – of up to 10 years – are interest-free for the first 2 years with no repayments required over that period (2 years). A subsequent concessional interest rate will apply, equivalent to 50 per cent of the Commonwealth bond rate (currently equivalent to less than 1.0 per cent). There will be no fees, charges or administration costs.

To enquire about eligibility criteria for the concessional loans and associated terms and conditions, businesses are invited to email [email protected] or visit the website Business.sa.gov.au