The Activating Alfresco Rebate Program is about helping small businesses expand their business footprint and having more patrons dining outdoors, which we know helps to limit the spread of COVID-19.

Our Government's response to COVID-19 has placed Western Australia in a strong financial position, and that is why we are able to provide this type of assistance to businesses.

Since December, we have provided five additional financial support packages for WA businesses and a total of $1.7 billion in business support during the pandemic.

We are facing the most difficult period of the pandemic to date, but our Government will continue to do what is necessary to protect WA businesses, local jobs and the economy from the full brunt of COVID-19.

I am a massive supporter of alfresco dining - it's a great way for businesses to expand their operations, but it also adds vibrancy and activation in our neighbourhoods.

That's why the alfresco grants program is such a fantastic initiative - it combines the great aspects of alfresco dining, while supporting small businesses through COVID-19 and giving the community more confidence to dine out.

Our Government is also progressing changes to local laws that will cut red tape and make it easier for small businesses to create alfresco dining spaces. Not only will this support the growth of small businesses in the future, but it also provides greater opportunities for patrons to dine out in a COVID-safe way