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Maitland council launches COVID-19 response, initiatives

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With the Hunter entering its second week of lockdown, Maitland City Council is doing everything possible to assist its community.

At Tuesday’s meeting, councillors endorsed a number of COVID-19 response and recovery initiatives to support their residents and businesses.

It was well-timed, with NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian extending the “stay at home” orders after 24 new cases were recorded in the region (on Wednesday), making it a total of 77 since 5 August.

The lockdown is now in force until 20 August for everyone in the Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, Maitland, Port Stephens, Singleton, Dungog, Muswellbrook and Cessnock LGAs.

“It’s been a really tough time for some people and businesses in our community,” mayor Loretta Baker said.

“I know everyone is pulling together and helping each other out where they can – and we, as a council, want to do the same.”

In response to the current restrictions and in support of those vulnerable community members and local businesses, initiatives include temporary suspension of interest on overdue rates, deferred payment of quarterly rate instalments, suspension of hire costs and lease fees.

Any person or business experiencing difficulty making payments, or who would like to enquire about accessing these extended hardship provisions, should contact council’s Customer Experience Team through live chat on the website at www.maitland.nsw.gov.au, phoning 4934 9700 or emailing [email protected]

“Council will continue to support and promote the Food Assistance Network Program developed in partnership with the Maitland Neighbourhood Centre, including providing up to $20,000 in additional financial assistance to those hardest hit, via the Maitland Neighbourhood Centre,” Cr Baker said.

“Our staff are investigating ways to support businesses by encouraging residents to shop local through initiatives such as social media campaigns.

“Direct costs associated with these programs will be met from council’s COVID-19 Response and Recovery reserve and reported back to council.”

For more details, visit www.maitland.nsw.gov.au/covid-19-response-and-recovery

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