Tuesday, 22 February 2022

Ministers statements: economy

Mr PAKULA (Keysborough—Minister for Industry Support and Recovery, Minister for Trade, Minister for Business Precincts, Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events, Minister for Racing) (14:23): In the last few days the government announced the return of dance floors, the removal of density quotients, the relaxation of QR codes, masks off in many settings and a change to advice re working in the office. Yesterday we augmented that with over $200 million in business stimulus because we know the power of supporting consumers to generate economic activity and the multiplier effect that support creates. The package includes dining, entertainment and travel vouchers and assistance for Victorian small businesses.

There is $10 million to fund another round of Melbourne Money, to be delivered with the City of Melbourne, enticing diners back to cafes, bars and restaurants, and $30 million to extend that model to the rest of the state, delivering vouchers for food and wine experiences across Victoria. There is an entertainment rebate scheme providing $30 million in discounts for tickets to the theatre, live music, cinemas, museums, galleries, exhibitions and other events across the state. All of those programs operate by reimbursing customers 25 per cent of their spend between $40 and $500. Additionally, we are investing $30 million to expand the travel voucher scheme, encouraging even more Victorians to holiday at home and spend on accommodation, attractions and tours. That will commence with a seniors round of 10 000 vouchers on 15 March and the balance of 140 000 vouchers soon after that. There is also support in the small business space: a ventilation fund, small business adaptation, business recovery and resilience mentoring and Jobs Victoria support to place over 1500 people in jobs.

As cases come down and people feel confident to go out eating, drinking, cheering and playing together, they are returning to our attractions, and this will turbocharge it. As we move into the fashion and food and wine festivals, the footy is back on, the Formula One roars back to life and Hamilton starts, there will be no better place to be in Australia than Victoria.