As the country creeps further into lockdown, the local economy has come to a complete standstill.

Manager of Finance at Leeton Shire Council, Jackie Hawkins, says that council already have existing hardship provisions in place for residential ratepayers facing financial difficulties.

"Leeton Shire Council officers are presently reviewing opportunities to clarify how the same policy applies to business ratepayers," Mrs Hawkins explained.

"It is expected the options for clarification will be presented to council for consideration in April."

Residents wanting to apply for assistance must call the Council Rates Officer on 6953 0911.

The officer will then discuss the requirements of the application process with the applicant, and provide them with an application form.

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"Potential options for relief include no interest charges, a payment plan, a deferral period or all or any combination of this assistance to pay the outstanding 2019/20 rates and charges," Mrs Hawkins said.

Council have structured the application process to ensure community members are treated fairly, consistently and compassionately.

"Council considers applications for hardship on a case by case basis and requires applicants to complete an application form and provide supporting documentation to ensure the Financial Hardship Policy is applied fairly and consistently across the community," Mrs Hawkins added.

The policy review has come at just the right time, as business owners feeling the pinch are being forced to relieve their staff in order to balance the books.

This has caused considerable financial difficulty for both employees and employers, as the country continues trying to find a way to beat the economical influence of a global epidemic.

Council are expecting the final review before May 1.

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