The Berejiklian government has conceded it needs to better communicate with small businesses when it embarks on major infrastructure projects, after a review found there were "deep concerns" with access to support services during the building of the CBD light rail.

In a report delivered to the government in February, but released publicly only this month, NSW Customer Service Commissioner Glenn King urged the government to establish a $5-$10 million fund to help businesses continue trading through periods of disruption.

Roads were blocked off and noise and barriers greeted pedestrians during the construction of the light rail. Credit:Brendan Esposito

"A key finding from the review is some small businesses struggle to tolerate the prolonged disruptions of infrastructure projects," the report found.

It said the grants should be made available "in addition to any direct financial relief, such as through ex gratia payments" and recommended the fund be established as part of the 2019-20 budget – a deadline the government has missed.