C O V I D - 1 9 S U R V I V A L G U I D E
PREMIER OF TASMANIA Peter Gutwein MP
MINISTER FOR HOSPITALITY Sarah Courtney MP
I n such challenging times it is fantastic to see the determination and optimism that Tasmanians are displaying and this is no more evident than in our Hospitality sector. I am completely aware that the decisions I have made to date have had a massive impact on all the businesses in this sector, however I want to assure you that they have been made with the health and well being of all Tasmanians first and foremost. In reality I expect to have to make more decisions that will have further impacts as we move ahead. Simultaneously this Government has announced a range of social and economic measures that are designed to complement the Federal Government’s packages that support business and the community at this time. The first tranche of these we consciously prioritised the hospitality, tourism and seafood sectors and have backed this up with further initiatives that are designed to help businesses survive and where at all possible retain as many of their employees as possible. I must also acknowledge the work that the THA team is doing in working with Government to communicate effectively to its membership and to raise issues that require our attention. As I continue to say we must work together, be responsible and follow the guidelines that come from specialist medical advice and as Tasmanians come through the other side with a vision and capacity to regain our status as Australia’s highest performing destination. I thank you for your support and professionalism.
T he events of the past few months are unprecedented with the impact of COVID-19 taking its toll. We are fighting a battle on two fronts, to save lives in our community and to save Tasmanian businesses who are the backbone of our economy. The Tasmanian Government recognises that our hospitality industry is a vital contributor to the state’s economy, it is one of the largest employers. Over the past few weeks, I have been speaking with many small business operators and it has been heartbreaking to watch many of them have to close their doors due to the COVID-19 pandemic. “The Tasmanian Government is working hard to provide support to business owners, to employees and to the community… ” As Minister for Small Business, Hospitality and Events, I want to assure you that the Government will do everything we can to cushion the blow of the economic impact we are now facing. We have announced Tasmania’s most significant Social and Economic support package ever, totalling $985 million. Building on the previous measures, this package will deliver more support to more businesses, ranging from interest free loans, grant programs, help to get businesses online, electricity and fee relief, plus other measures. I have also recently announced Round 2 of the Small Business Emergency Grants Program, which offers support of $2,500 to eligible businesses who have not yet received funding under the first round. On top of this, the Small Business Hardship Grant Program providing grants of $15,000 is also now open. Eligible small businesses must demonstrate severe hardship, show they are able to operate in the current environment and provide necessary products and services to the community, or are
For further information on Tasmanian Goverment stimulus and support measures visit: www.coronavirus.tas.gov.au
THA HOSPITALITY—REVIEW: COVID-19 SURVIVAL GUIDE APRIL 2020 | 8
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