$25,000 grant for small businesses affected by the Great Western Highway closure

The NSW Rural Assistance Authority has launched a new Great Western Highway closure small business support grant to help eligible small businesses impacted by the prolonged closure of the Great Western Highway at Victoria Pass from March 2026. 

Under the program, affected small businesses can apply for a $25,000 grant to assist with financial pressures caused by reduced trade and access challenges resulting from the highway disruption. 

Applications open on Monday 22 June 2026 at 10am (AEST) and close on Friday 22 January 2027 at 4pm (AEDT).

Small business owners are encouraged to review the program guidelines and apply early, as funding is limited. 

The Commission, in collaboration with Service NSW Business Bureau and local organisations, is also running a series of free workshops along the Great Western Highway to support small businesses impacted by the recent highway closure.

Further information, including eligibility criteria and key dates, is available on the Rural Assistance Authority grants page.

Helpful links:

• Disruption guides