Queensland small business Covid recoverye

NATIONAL QUEENSLAND

Queensland small business COVID recovery

Prior to Christmas MGA met with Queensland Small Business Minister Di Farmer and Small Business Commissioner Maree Adshead to discuss the imminent challenges Queensland small business owners are facing, and will continue to face, as Queensland borders open and COVID-19 restrictions are brought in line with NSW and Victoria. Topics included how to handle close contacts, availability of rapid antigen tests and being able to stay open for business.

COVID-19 compliance protocols were discussed and will continue to assist control of the virus, such as QR codes, mask wearing, together with the importance for the Qld population to be triple vaccinated.

Staff shortages were discussed given the high occurrence of positive cases particularly in South East Queensland, and the need for these people to isolate. Food supply and food security issues were identified as major causes for concern given staff shortages across the entire food supply chain.

Dr Karen Hooper, Productivity Commissioner, Office of Productivity and Red Tape Reduction joined the meeting to provide an overview of Queensland Treasury’s new Office of Productivity and Red Tape Reduction’s role. Dr Hooper stated Queensland’s economic recovery was predicated upon identifying ways to increase productivity and regulatory reform for priority areas so as to boost small business productivity.

MGA will keep members advised of Queensland Government initiatives to assist small businesses recovering from the serious hiatus caused by COVID-19 restrictions and lockdowns.

Sml Bus Commissioner Maree Adshead addresses the meeting 16Jan 22

Minister Sml Bus Di Farmer & Maree Adshead Sml Bus Comm 16 Dec 21 Minister Sml Bus Di Farmer addresses the meeting 16Jan 22