Sutherland Shire Council waives fees for cafes, restaurants and other small businesses impacted by COVID

The council, at its last meeting, unanimously agreed not to charge fees during 2021-22 for outdoor dining licences and A-frame and Shopfront Display permits, which apply to advertising structures outside shops.

The relief package is valued at $300,000.

The council also resolved to "encourage outdoor dining in a safe manner, in appropriate footway locations, as a means reducing the spread of the COVID-19 virus, when public health orders permit".

A sub-committee will assess any rental waiver or decreases requested for council owned properties.

Councillor Carmelo Pesce, who owns three cafes in the shire, declared a conflict of interest and did not take part in the discussion or vote.

The council resolution also "acknowledges and thanks many in the Sutherland Shire community for adhering to and supporting the Public Health Orders, staying at home, registering to be vaccinated; all with the aim of keeping everyone safe".