Australia COVID: Small business asks national cabinet for reopening answers

Small business has joined calls for national cabinet and state governments to provide nationally consistent protocols for safe operating after Australia reopens from COVID-19 lockdowns, warning guidance for operators is overdue.

Council of Small Business Organisations Australia chief executive Alexi Boyd said a new framework to be handed to national cabinet addresses key issues for the sector, including exposure to positive cases, notification of rule changes to businesses and practical issues including ventilation standards.

“We are seeking a national standardised approach because only when small businesses all over the country know what to expect and can plan, and have enough time to plan, can we see ourselves rebuilding out of this,” Ms Boyd said.

The framework will be given to the federal, Victorian and NSW governments and Ms Boyd said she hoped national cabinet will consider the issues raised.

Last week, Business Council of Australia chief executive Jennifer Westacott said nationally consistent rules would allow business to get on with planning, investment and job creation, but warned against any delay on a safe reopening.