As tens of thousands of Queensland businesses head into day three of a now four-day lockdown, the State Government has abandoned them in their hour of need.
The Premier today did not offer any assistance or hope to small and family businesses who right now are disposing of thousands of dollars in stock and bookings.
Restaurants, wedding planners, gym owners, florists, tourism and events operators and many others will be hit hard and yet the State Government has refused to put a dollar on the table.
The LNP is again calling for the State Government to implement a Covid Business Lockdown Support Package.
LNP suggestions include:
- LUMP LOCKDOWN PAYMENTS: payments for small businesses to cover loss of income due to lockdowns
- DEEP CLEANING COVER: a rebate covering deep cleaning fees if a business is identified as a COVID-19 exposure venue
- EVENT CANCELLATION REBATES: covers financial losses if event is cancelled due to a lockdown
Leader of the Opposition David Crisafulli said small and family business owners and their staff desperately needed certainty.
“If a decision is taken on health grounds, it can’t be for one sector of the community to bear the brunt of the financial pain,” he said.
“We remain the only state in the country that doesn’t have a Covid business support package.
“It’s a national embarrassment that will cost Queenslanders their livelihoods and mental wellness.”
Shadow Minister for Small Business Brent Mickelberg said small and family businesses needed confidence.
“They are prepared to accept the health advice for the greater good but when a decision is taken beyond their control, they need to know they don’t have to carry the full burden all on their own,” he said.
“The State Government has abandoned them in their hour of need.
“They must act now and support these businesses, the engine room of our state.”
