Deadline: 12-Sep-2025
Applications are now open for the Algal Bloom Small Business Support Grant Program, aimed at helping South Australian small businesses and not-for-profit organisations significantly impacted by the recent Algal Bloom along the state’s coastline. The program is administered by the Department of State Development (DSD) in collaboration with the Department of Treasury and Finance (DTF).
Eligible businesses include marine or coastal tourism operators (excluding hospitality and food services), charter boat and fishing operators, surf and marine-based schools, seafood processors, commercial fisheries and aquaculture licence holders, and suppliers or retailers in the marine and fishing industry. Coastal caravan parks and beachfront kiosks or cafes are also eligible, though short-term rental properties like those listed on Airbnb are not.
Each eligible applicant can receive a one-time grant of $10,000 (excluding GST). This voluntary payment from the South Australian Government is intended to support business continuity following the revenue losses caused by the Algal Bloom. The grant may be used to cover expenses such as rent, utilities, staff wages, financial advice, marketing, business adaptation, and efforts to retain or support existing employees.
To qualify, applicants must be a legal entity in Australia with an active ABN as of 1 January 2025, and must be a South Australian-based business or not-for-profit organisation. Businesses (excluding fisheries and aquaculture licence holders) must also be registered for GST as of 22 July 2025 and show a minimum turnover of $18,750 in the relevant three-month period. Annual grouped payroll must be under $1.5 million for 2024–25.
Applicants must prove a 30% or greater decline in business turnover between 1 April and 31 July 2025 compared to the same period the previous year. If the business was not operational during that time last year, alternate evidence showing a similar drop during any three-month period since commencing operations can be provided.
Importantly, applicants must also clearly describe how their business has been negatively affected by the Algal Bloom to the satisfaction of the program administrators. Applications lacking a demonstrated connection may be declined.
For more information, visit DSD.