Launched on 15 November, the state-funded program is designed to assist sole traders and small businesses to build their digital capability through off-the-shelf digital programs and workshops.

Through the program, businesses can trial digital products (which are designed to help the businesses adapt to online operations) before purchasing and gain access to a $1,200 rebate from the State.

The various programs and tools available in the program include websites, point-of-sale payment systems, e-commerce platforms as well as financial and digital business management tools.

The rebate is only available to products from suppliers that have partnered with the State Government to be part of the program (suppliers can also register to participate in the program in the future).

Also on offer as part of the program are free digital adaptation training workshops to help registered businesses adopt and implement online tools in their business.

Registrations are open for the program for both businesses and suppliers via the Business Victoria website.

Key details

While the program is open from 15 November 2020 to 31 March 2021, registrations for digital product trials and workshops will only remain open until 28 February 2021. Businesses must register before that trial period closes.

Applications for purchase rebates to cover 12 months product access will be open from 1 December 2020 to 11.59pm on 31 March 2021, or until funds are exhausted.

Expression of interests are also open until 11:59pm 4 December for suppliers who would like their product to be available for the scheme.

Once registered, businesses can trial digital products and workshops before purchasing their preferred product. Businesses can then apply for the $1,200 rebate to access the product for 12 months. Evidence of purchase is required to access the rebate, and applicants will be contacted six weeks after applying for a rebate to ensure their business has established product use and begun its digital adaptation journey.

Eligibility

The rebate scheme is available to small businesses, micro businesses and sole traders located in Victoria who have had an ABN as of 13 September 2019, and were registered for GST as of 13 September 2020.

Not-for-profit entities that are not registered for GST and are registered with the Australian Charities and Not-for-Profit Commission are also eligible to apply.

Businesses that have received assistance through the initial Business Support Fund, the Business Support Fund expansion, round 3 of the Business Support Fund, Sole Trader Support Fund, payroll tax rebate/waiver, or other COVID-19 programs (including hospitality programs) can also apply for support under this program.

Further information on the program guidelines and the program are available via the Business Victoria website here.

How we can help

The Victorian Chamber has been advocating on behalf of business for support and assistance programs such as the Small Business Digital Adaption Program. As businesses begin to reopen and the realities of the restrictions are felt, we will continue to advocate for policies and programs that support the recovery and growth of Victorian businesses.

If you have any questions or would like to be involved in our advocacy work, please contact policy@victorianchamber.com.au.