The continuing fall out from the COVID-19 virus has seen Parkes Shire Councillors meeting regularly via video conference and they have released the following statement:
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"COVID-19 was recently described by the Australian Prime Minister as a double disaster, a health disaster and a financial disaster. As such, Council is responding on behalf of Parkes Shire businesses.
We are still enduring the drought which is the worst ever to hit the region.
The drought has crippled not only the farming community, but many other businesses based in town. Now, COVID-19 has smashed our businesses and the anguish is palpable.
Council will be lobbying our local Federal Member the Deputy PM Michael McCormack, Hon. Sam Farraway MLC, local State Member Phil Donato and Linda Scott, President of Local Government NSW and anyone who will listen.
For a start we will be lobbying for:
- A UK and New Zealand style 80% wage subsidy
- Financial counsellors for business to help navigate the assistance available
- State Government to provide rate relief, similar to that offered during the recent bushfires
- Assistance to not only sustain businesses while shutdown, but allows them to learn and consolidate, so they are ready to go upon re-opening.
- Essential supply chains to reach regional and rural areas to ensure that our farming and smaller communities such as Peak Hill, Trundle, Bogan Gate and Tullamore continue to receive deliveries of food and fuel.
Council will also simplify hardship applications to allow all ratepayers, including businesses, to apply for relief. Payment plans will be encouraged, wherever possible, to alleviate any financial hardship.
The uncertainty around this time is debilitating, but we will fight to get the assistance we need to save our business community and employees."
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