Local businesses that need additional workers but require some financial assistance to make it cost effective, are being encouraged to apply for the State Government’s Job Accelerator Grants. Local Member of Parliament, Mr Tony Piccolo said that eligible small businesses could apply to receive a grant of up to $10,000 over two years, for each additional staff member above current numbers they employ.South Australian businesses have registered almost 3000 newly created positions for Job Accelerator Grants since the scheme was announced as part of the State Budget in July this year. Mr Piccolo said this figure is in line with our projection that the scheme would help create 14,000 jobs over two years.“These grants are all about giving businesses the confidence and grow and create jobs in our economy, and it is a very positive sign that businesses are embracing the scheme,” said Mr Piccolo.The NAB business survey released recently, revealed business confidence in South Australia is the highest in the nation.Mr Piccolo said last year’s budget was about cutting taxes to make South Australia the lowest-cost state in Australia to do business. This year we are partnering with businesses to help them employ more staff, create value and grow our economy.A Job Accelerator Grant of up to $10 000 ($5000 each year for two years) per new Full-Time Equivalent (FTE) job created is available for businesses liable for payroll tax in SA with total Australian wages of $5 million or less. A Job Accelerator Grant for Small Business and Start-ups of up to $4000 ($2000 each year for two years) per new job created is available for most businesses that are not liable for payroll tax. Mr Piccolo said the $4,000 grant is available to businesses with Australian wages below the payroll tax free threshold (currently $600 000) and most organisations that are exempt from payroll tax (e.g. public benevolent institution).For more information go to http://www.revenuesa.sa.gov.au/info_circulars/IC_095.pdf or by contacting Mr Piccolo’s electorate office on 85 222878.