Small businesses affected by the ongoing closure of the Great Western Highway at Victoria Pass are being offered free professional advice through a NSW Government-funded assistance program.
The initiative aims to help businesses navigate the economic impacts of the road closure, which has disrupted tourism, freight movements, customer access and business operations across parts of the Blue Mountains and Central West.
Eligible businesses can receive up to three hours of one-on-one support from independent private sector advisors experienced in helping businesses respond to unexpected disruptions and plan for recovery.
The fully subsidised program is available until 9 September 2026 for businesses employing fewer than 20 staff and operating within eligible regions affected by the closure.
Businesses can seek assistance on a range of issues including:
- Trading through prolonged disruptions.
- Finding new ways to reach customers.
- Managing cash flow and debt.
- Responding to supply chain challenges.
- Managing contracts and business commitments.
- Addressing staffing impacts.
- Diversifying products and services.
- Planning for the eventual reopening of the highway.
The Great Western Highway closure at Victoria Pass has affected many businesses that rely on visitor traffic travelling between Sydney, the Blue Mountains and Central West NSW.
Tourism operators, accommodation providers, hospitality businesses, retailers and service providers have all reported varying levels of impact since the closure occurred.
The advisory program is designed to provide practical business support tailored to individual circumstances rather than generic advice.
Under the scheme, businesses are matched with an independent advisor who will discuss their specific situation and help identify strategies to improve resilience and recovery.
Following registration, an advisor from the service provider will contact eligible businesses to arrange the first consultation session.
While the program is primarily targeted at businesses within the Blue Mountains and Central West regions, the closure's impacts have also been felt by businesses in the wider Hawkesbury area that depend on visitor traffic travelling via the Great Western Highway and Bells Line of Road.
The announcement comes as businesses continue to adapt to changing travel patterns and reduced visitation resulting from the prolonged disruption to one of NSW's key transport corridors.
Business owners who believe they may be eligible are encouraged to check the program criteria and register before applications close.
Key Information
Who can apply?
Businesses with fewer than 20 employees located within eligible affected regions.
What is available?
Up to three hours of free, tailored business advice.
What can advisors help with?
Cash flow, customer engagement, staffing, supply chains, contracts, diversification and recovery planning.
Closing date:
9 September 2026.
Business owners can check eligibility and register through the NSW Government business support program. https://www.service.nsw.gov.au/transaction/great-western-highway-road-closure?
