Business gets boost

SUPPORT will be available to businesses affected by the snap three-day lockdown in the state’s South to assist with their losses.

On Wednesday Premier Peter Gutwein said many firms had been hit hard by the lockdown.

“Obviously our businesses have borne the brunt of this lockdown and while employees have programs available, we know businesses have been affected by the lockdown,” Mr Gutwein said.

Businesses in the 12 local government areas sent into lockdown would be able to access support under the Southern Tasmania lockdown business support program.

“A $1000 payment will be made to any business with a minimum of $25,000 turnover that was forced to close for the duration of the lockdown,” the Premier said.

“Businesses that closed partially, maybe they pivoted to takeaway or other service delivery, will receive a $750 payment.

“An additional payment of up to $10,000 is available for lost perishable goods, which had to be discarded as a direct result of the lockdown order. If a wedding had flowers organised and it had to be cancelled and the business has suffered a loss because those flowers won’t keep, they can put in a claim.”

Tourism Industry Council of Tasmania chief executive Luke Martin said it was a small offering.

“Clearly $1000 grants aren’t going to make a big difference for businesses that lost in some cases tens of thousands of dollars over the weekend,” Mr Martin said.

“It’s a gesture from the government I think is appreciated.

“What we do welcome is the additional payments for people who had perishable goods.”

The Premier said discussions were under way to also provide support to stallholders affected by the cancellation of The Unconformity.

A revised events framework was also released on Wednesday, which will come into effect on November 1.

Under the framework, events with 350 people indoors and 500 outdoors must be registered, events with more than 2000 people must have an approved Covid plan.

Face masks will need to be worn at events with more than 1000 people.