@772 Wine Bar is a small locally run fully licenced wine bar and live music venue which has been forced shut down since 22 March 2020. With the 3rd round of government assistance, Mr Andrews has announced the Licensed Venue Hospitality Fund.  This grant would assist greatly in the survival of my small business. 

However to be eligible for a grant from this program, applicants must:

·       Operate a licensed pub, club, hotel, bar, restaurant or reception centre under a general, full club or on-premises liquor licence issued by the Victorian Commission for Gambling and Liquor Regulation, and (TICK)

·       Have premises that serve patrons and holds a Class 2 or 3 Service Sector – Certificate of Registration under the Food Act 1984 (Vic) issued by a local council

My council permit allows me to operate as a Tavern and I am exempt from food service.  My business model was to support  the local restaurants in my area by allowing my patrons to bring in (BYO) food from the surrounding cafes/restaurants whilst I supply the drinks and entertainment.  I support local business by allowing their food served in my Winebar.  I even supply cutlery and crockery for the byo food to be eaten from.  I charge zero for the service

As such, The state Government says I am not eligible for the grant.  I am being penalised by supporting my fellow surrounding businesses.   I desperately need this grant to survive.