THE Bendigo business community has welcomed the state government's $250 million package to support the sector during lockdown.

Be.Bendigo chief executive Dennis Bice said any available grants would be well received.

"It certainly covers off industries that are the hardest affected," he said. "Eligible businesses will certainly be happy to receive those support grants."

Related news: Bendigo gyms launch online classes to work through Victoria's coronavirus lockdown

Mr Bice said Be.Bendigo would look into the programs in the coming days and determine how they could help businesses to apply for the grants.

He said during the first few days of lockdown, there had been fewer requests for support from Bendigo business.

"In the earlier lockdowns, we had a lot of phone calls and enquiries looking for support," Mr Bice said.

"It's only early days but based on what we've seen, there hasn't been as many enquiries. The general feeling is that we've been through this before and we know what to expect."

Read other news: Man in custody after alleged Echuca aggravated carjacking

Mr Bice said while the financial assistance was great, businesses could also be looking for mental health support during the lockdown.

"There are already support programs for mental health and wellbeing," he said. "Be.Bendigo has a funded employee for that particular role.

"So I would suggest those businesses who are looking for support, contact Be.Bendigo for that assistance. We will gladly put them in contact."

Earlier

A $250 million package has been announced to support small and medium sized businesses during the coronavirus snap lockdown.

Acting Premier James Merlino on Sunday confirmed the package would cover a range of businesses in the hospitality, retail, and events sectors.

From the package, about $190 million will go towards the second round of the Business Costs Assistance Program.

Related news: Melbourne aged care worker among the new COVID-19 cases

The program will offer grants of $2500 for eligible businesses, including restaurants, cafes, event suppliers, accommodation providers, and non-essential retailers.

Another $40.7 million will go towards the Licensed Hospitality Venue Fund, which provides businesses holding an eligible liquor licence and food certificate with a $3500 grant per premises.

An allocation of $20 million will also be dedicated to supporting operators in the events industry who have incurred losses due to the lockdown.

Businesses can register their interest in the Business Costs Assistance Program at business.vic.gov.au, so they can be notified when applications open this week.

Read more: Bendigo gyms launch online classes to work through Victoria's coronavirus lockdown

Operators eligible for the Licensed Hospitality Venue Fund payment will be contacted directly by email in coming days.

Treasurer Tim Pallas said the state government had pushed the federal government for assistance to workers but those requests were declined.

"We need them to step up to the plate," he said. "Workers need them, the community needs them.

"Only yesterday we heard representatives of the federal government say that they were the party for the workers.

"Well nice words, but it would be really good if the party did some work for working people and provided them with the assistance they need and require."

Our journalists work hard to provide local, up-to-date news to the community. This is how you can access our trusted content: