Thursday, 19 March 2020

COVID-19

Mr BATTIN (Gembrook) (2317)

My adjournment matter is for the Premier, and the action I seek is for the Premier to meet with local business groups in the south-east and outline the current position for a stimulus package to support Victorian businesses.

In the Gembrook electorate many businesses are struggling already, and they are concerned the impact will be far more significant over the coming months. The travel industry has had direct and immediate impacts with the loss of trade, having to refund most customers and the workload increasing with a need to support many in cancelling or moving flights and accommodation.

The impact on small travel business means they are earning no income at this stage but working many extra hours.

In Berwick trade has slowed, with restaurants, cafes, retail and services seeing revenue drop and the need to reduce casual hours immediately and reviewing part-time and full-time positions. It is more important than ever that the state government work on a package to support these businesses; it is about jobs and people’s ability to pay staff and keep the door open.

Premier, as the local member for Gembrook, I speak on behalf of all my businesses across the electorate when I say we are hurting, as we understand many across the state are. I am ready to work with you on an outcome that gives confidence to the community and prepares Victoria for recovery to lessen the impact on the people we are elected to represent.

Added to this is the major concern for school camp groups who have had all camps cancelled at short notice and no confirmation of payments for services booked by contract. A package to support these businesses would assist with protecting many jobs for the future.