If Queensland is on the verge of a lockdown, the State Government should be on the verge of announcing a detailed support package for businesses and committing to a clear pathway out of the pandemic.
Shadow Treasurer David Janetkzi says the State Government wasn’t ready for the last lockdown and that cost small and family businesses dearly.
Many had to close their doors.
“If we are placed into lockdown again, Queenslanders cannot afford for the State Government to make the same mistake,” Mr Janetzki said.
“Two months after the last lockdown, less than half of the 25,000 grant applications made by business operators have been paid out.
“That’s not good enough.
“We need to know the State Government is ready to support businesses if we go into lockdown again.
“Small businesses need certainty to survive. Right now, the State Government is failing to give small and family businesses and their staff the certainty they need to invest, trade and grow.”
Shadow Small and Family Business Minister Brent Mickelberg says the State Government is turning a blind eye while Queensland businesses close one by one.
“Where’s the plan?” Mr Mickelberg said.
“I am regularly talking with business owners who are under immense financial stress and battling anxiety, wondering if they’ll be able to pay their rent or give their staff shifts.
“There needs to be a plan and there needs to be compassion.
“We have been pushing non-stop for a dedicated lockdown support package to be clearly laid out, so business owners and their staff know they’ll be assisted.
“The Treasurer must swallow his pride and listen to our calls on behalf of all Queenslanders.
“I’ll say it again – there needs to be a sliding scale approach to financial assistance, tax relief and rebates for event cancellations and deep-cleaning at exposure sites.”