Localised lockdowns to stop spread

Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry

While essential to controlling the recent spike in infections across Melbourne, today is a huge blow for thousands of businesses and their workers in Covid-19 hotspots forced to shut down their businesses again for the next four weeks.

The Victorian Chamber recognises the significant impact these localised restrictions will have on businesses in hot spot suburbs. While it cannot make up for lost revenue, we called for and are pleased to see additional assistance being made available.

We believe the reintroduction of lockdowns can be justified if it means the recent spike in infections can be brought under control and businesses can reopen quickly in unaffected areas.

With Victoria’s health and economy recovery dependent on controlling the rate of transmission, and these restrictions in place, it is now up to the community to respect the direction of health officials and to ensure Victoria does not see more infections.

To be attributed to Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry Chief Executive Paul Guerra:

“Victoria is experiencing Australia’s first significant test of Covid-19 outbreaks, but it will not be the last.

“Long-term recovery is likely to take years, and without a vaccine we will all have to learn to live and work with the threat of outbreaks of Covid-19.

“We know there’s going to be more outbreaks and we need to find a way to keep Victorians back at work and businesses operating while also stopping the spread.

“It will be extremely tough for businesses in the areas affected by suburb lock downs but we can’t allow the spread of outbreaks get to a point where the whole state is put under strict restrictions again.

“The Victorian Chamber stands ready to help any business affected by the shutdowns and invites them to contact us to access support.”

/Public Release.