ALONG with everyone else, I am eagerly awaiting the State Government’s decision about ongoing business support for regional Victoria.
We were told to expect a modest easing of restrictions when we got out of lockdown and that’s precisely what we’ve got.
Minor changes to settings are compounding some major financial headaches.
Some businesses are prevented from opening, others have been granted the right to, but under strict limitations.
Hospitality venues are restricted to 10 patrons indoors and 20 outdoors.
That’s fine for a small cafe, but it’s a financial horror show for a pub or club.
Some big venues have decided it’s not worth reopening yet.
Others are doing so, but will almost certainly make a loss.
What we do know is that any business that has previously received a Business Costs Assistance Grant Program payment or a Licensed Hospitality Venue Fund payment will receive their full payment for the two weeks from September 2, regardless of whether they’re open or closed.
Beyond that, arrangements remain to be seen.
The state’s Industry, Support and Recovery Minister has said a decision about cash grants for the fortnight from September 17 will be made next week.
What everyone wants is for these businesses to return to profitability.
More importantly, businesses want to be considered safe.
Some support is better than no support, but the best way to support business is through customers.
Ironically, we could have a surge of visitors coming to our region right now, as intrastate travel in regional Victoria is back.
But with capacity limitations and many closed doors, we can’t cater for them, and that impacts the visitor experience.
Businesses have been itching to open up for weeks now, but those fortunate enough to be given that chance will now be turning away customers.
Victoria’s Small Business Minister has said she will work with industry groups to develop support arrangements that continue beyond next Friday for businesses that need it.
Under current restrictions, I’d argue most will.
