Sunshine Coast businesses are struggling due to a lack of support from the State Government who told people to stay home for 6 weeks.
It’s time for the State Government to step up and support businesses that are on the brink of collapse due to no support being provided by the State Government.
New South Wales, Victoria and South Australia have all announced small business support packages, but in Queensland there’s nothing.
Shadow Treasurer, David Janetzki MP, has been in town today meeting with key industry leaders to assess the business support needed.
“I’m here listening to businesses and it’s clear they need help now”.
“For many businesses, turnover and patronage has dropped dramatically, which has resulted in closures, job losses and worsening mental health”, Mr Janetzki said.
“The state government must deliver a support package, whether that includes direct grants, payroll support, tax relief, commercial tenancy relief or a voucher system”.
“Confidence will only be returned with decisive action and clear and consistent government messaging”, he said.
Member for Maroochydore, Fiona Simpson MP said “when you are constantly out in the community and businesses are empty at peak times of the day, I worry for them.
“Small businesses have done it tough over the last two years and 2022 hasn’t had the start we all hoped for.
“However, I am hopeful that the year can end well, if businesses are provided the support they need so that they can continue to operate.
President of the Mooloolaba Chamber of Commerce, Graeme Juniper said “Some Business operations are down approx. 30% across the usually busy Mooloolaba Tourist Strip
“Whilst the business operators are staying positive, some days when it is quiet it is difficult. Any State Government support would be welcomed.”
Micro[1] and small[2] businesses make up about 97% of the Sunshine Coast LGA and about 40% have a turnover of up to $100,000 per annum[3]. These aren’t rich people, but hardworking Queenslanders that deserve the necessary support to keep operating. A support package is needed to provide the support these businesses need. The State Government must release a business support package now.
[1] Micro Business: employs 1-4 employees
[2] Small Business: employs 5-19 employees
[3] Source – Counts of Australian Businesses, including Entries and Exits, July 2017 – June 2021 | Australian Bureau of Statistics (abs.gov.au)<https://www.abs.gov.au/statistics/economy/business-indicators/counts-australian-businesses-including-entries-and-exits/latest-release>
