SCRAMBLING TO CATCH UP

IT is very apparent that Australia, Queensland and the rest of the world have failed to “war game” the scenarios involved in a pandemic like that which is now holding lives and economies to ransom.

One of the consequences is the scramble now to bring in measures to prop up the nation, and try to ensure the population has enough cash and food to get by.

The desperation is apparent in the decisions being made – and the situation on the Queensland-NSW border is a case in point. The Premier and Cabinet have decided to shut the border because the virus is causing major problems and therefore want to protect Queensland, but how does that work effectively when the city and Tweed straddle that imaginary line and thousands cross it each day for work, for medical reasons, for school and for important social contact within families?

The State Government announced major stimulus measures yesterday that are welcomed. As thousands of jobs shut down in many areas, others are apparently opening up. Some workers will make a transition, but many will not. They need support, which the Queensland taxpayer will be funding.

Similarly, the city council revealed the steps it must take. Rates will be frozen, as they should be, and many fees waived.

In all, there is plenty of support for business. The tragedy is that in a city such as ours, which has relied heavily on tourism and hospitality sectors and is the small business capital, many businesses will not survive to benefit from the support measures.

The measures brought to the table yesterday are a very good start. But households will be wanting to see how they too can benefit, other than the good news on rates.

Much more will need to be done.