Victorian businesses doing it tough will receive more help in dealing with the stress and emotional impacts of the coronavirus pandemic through a new Victorian Government wellbeing initiative.

Minister for Small Business Jaala Pulford today announced details of a $26 million program addressing the mental health needs of sole traders and small and medium business owners and their workers.

As part of the program, St John Ambulance will provide accredited mental health support training to chambers of commerce across Victoria to swiftly boost mental health capabilities within local business communities.

Mental health specialists will also be embedded in industry and business associations to provide members with immediate access to expert advisors and on-the-job training for staff to identify and respond to people in distress.

In addition, the Partners in Wellbeing telephone hotline – a free mental health support service delivered by EACH, Neami National and the Australian Community Support Organisation – will be extended to 10:00pm seven days a week and expanded to also include immediate access to business advisers and financial counsellors.

The delivery of these new services will begin this month. The Victorian Government has provided more than $6.5 billion to support businesses and workers since the onset of the pandemic.

Businesses affected by current restrictions can apply for a grant from the Business Support Fund – Expansion program until 14 September 2020. Grants of $10,000 are available for eligible businesses in metropolitan Melbourne and the Mitchell Shire, and $5,000 in regional Victoria. To apply, go to business.vic.gov.au.

The Partners in Wellbeing mental health support hotline is 1300 375 330.