Businesses across the Light electorate embraced the Job Accelerator Grant Scheme that was announced in the 2016/17 State Budget. More than 90 jobs were created since the scheme was announced across the Light electorate in a range of industries. The Job Accelerator Grant Scheme has received a boosted in the 2017/18 State Budget with an additional $5000 for apprentices and trainees. The increase in the Grant for apprentices and trainees is a State Budget measure to boost employment among young people. The expanded Grant means businesses with payrolls between $600,000 and $5 million will receive up to $15,000 for each apprentice above current staffing levels, while small businesses with payrolls up to $600,000 will receive up to $9000. The new Grant for apprentices and trainees will be backdated to July 2016, meaning businesses that have already hired a new apprentice or trainee and registered them for a Job Accelerator Grant will be eligible for the increased payment. Local Member for Parliament, Tony Piccolo said that he was pleased about the 90 new jobs in the Light electorate across the financial services, civil construction, retail and professional services and hospitality. “I am extremely pleased by the reception of these grants from the business community and the number of new position that have been registered,” Mr Piccolo said. “The Grant will continue to provide up to $10,000 to eligible business for each new workers employed above current staffing levels or $4000 for small businesses.” “The Grant has helped Damien McGee, the licensee of The Exchange Hotel, to employee additional staff.” “If these grants end up being oversubscribed and costing the Budget more than planned I would be very happy because that would mean more jobs for South Australians,” he said. Further details for the grants can be found online at www.revenuesa.sa.gov.au/jobs