"The continued Victorian lockdown is a big blow to many businesses and the Government must commit to getting out of lockdown as quickly as possible," Tim Piper the Victorian Head of the national employer association Ai Group said today.
"For some businesses this lockdown will be really tough and the support the State Government has provided is essential. The additional $209 million in business support is welcome and will be a lifeline for some but it will not get all businesses back and firing.
"Employers are encouraging their people to get tested and vaccinated to help shorten this lockdown and move closer towards a living with COVID approach.
"The ongoing uncertainty for business is 'where to from here?' We just don't know how long this lockdown will last and how and when we can resume the path to sustained recovery.
"We are pleased that the Government has recognised the differing position of regional Victoria to that in Melbourne and we can expect and hope that everybody will work within the framework offered by the Government, to keep the regions open.
"It's vital that we maintain open borders that keep freight moving to support business continuity not just for Victoria but for the rest of the country," Mr Piper said.
Further comment: Tim Piper – 0411 430 301
