Assistance for Qld's COVID-19 impacted manufacturers

Queensland is ‘ramping up’ its assistance to the state’s manufacturing sector to make it more resilient to the impacts of the coronavirus (COVID-19), Queensland Government announced over the weekend. This is as part of measures by the state government to help maintain manufacturing business and to support employees and customers from the effects of COVID-19. “We have a strong plan in place to keep manufacturers in business, protect jobs and the keep the wheels of industry turning during this turbulent time,” said Cameron Dick, Minister for Manufacturing in the state.

“If you are a manufacturer finding it difficult to access vital materials or supplies, we want to hear from you so we can assist,” Dick said. “The government is focused on providing the support needed to get our manufacturers through this crisis and keep their employees in jobs.” Dick also emphasised the importance of business-to-business collaboration during the crisis, with the state government working with the Australian Industry Group (Ai Group) to engage with industry.

“Together we need to ensure local businesses survive the economic headwinds brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic and can continue to not only supply goods and services to customers, but support staff and their families,” Rebecca Andrews, Ai Group’s Queensland head, said. Andrews also welcomed the ongoing communication and collaboration within the state and commended the state government for its efforts in listening to industry and taking action.

“Now is the time for our manufacturing community to band together,” said Shay Chalmers, QMI Solutions Executive Director. “We are actively retooling capabilities and activating our local capacity to get products to where they are most needed. Government and industry are working closely together to increase the supply of critical items and ensure continuity of supplies for our community. This is local manufacturing’s time to shine, we will stand together and manufacture products to support our community.”

In his statement, Dick also outlined the broader measures that have been put in place by the Palaszczuk Government to make business more resilient in the face of COVID-19. “There are a range of support measures available for business such as a job support loan package, interest-free loans for the first 12 months, payroll tax deferment and a $27.25 million coronavirus recovery package,” Dick said. “Importantly, this week we also introduced amendments to free up restrictions to allow trucks to deliver stocks to supermarkets 24 hours a day.”

Queensland manufacturers are being urged to ‘seek help and find a solution’ by completing a short form available at www.qld.gov.au/qld-supplies. For information on COVID-19 and Australian workplace laws, see here.

For the latest health information on COVID-19, refer to the Australian Government Department of Health.

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