Businesses right across the state are calling out for immediate government support.
Shadow Minister for Small Business Janie Finlay said any support coming from the government must be enough to combat the incredible downturn in business some operators are seeing.
“Tasmanian operators are hurting and they need financial support without delay during this challenging time,” Ms Finlay said.
“Labor’s recently released COVID-19 Response Framework for Tasmania calls on the government to provide support and information for businesses considering or forced to close due to staff shortages, increase the payment for isolating if someone is waiting for a test and provide support for staff whose loss of income is due to business closure or a direction to isolate.
“People need clarity, they need information and many businesses need increased financial support.
“I have heard from a number of concerned individuals who are struggling to make ends meet, with both business operators and workers impacted.
“From my conversations with business operators, there is a lack of clear direction and transparent communication from the government around how they should operate, which in some cases has forced operators to close their doors.
“It is vital that any support package supports both workers and businesses.
“For small business operators not only do the current challenges hurt their businesses’ bottom line but, in many instances, it impacts their ability to support their families.
“The Premier chose to open the borders on December 15 and said we were ready. His government set aside $300 million for COVID related issues in the Budget and now is the time to use some of this to support workers and business.”
Janie Finlay MP
Shadow Minister for Small Business
