As a state and as a nation, we are facing an unprecedented challenge that is truly devastating for small businesses, many workers and many families.

The measures being put in place in Tasmania and around Australia will have a severe impact and we must all support each other during this difficult time.

The fight against COVID-19 and the safety of Tasmanians will always be our highest priority.

SUPPORT FOR BUSINESSES

As we face this incredibly challenging fight to stop the spread of coronavirus and save lives, it’s important people and businesses know where to go to get help.

The Tasmanian Government will continue to work with business and industry to provide advice, both through peak organisations and directly to businesses.

There are significant packages of support being provided by both the Tasmanian and Australian Governments, with cash payments, tax breaks and interest free loans to support businesses affected by these necessary changes.

Businesses looking for more information should contact Business Tasmania on 1800 440 026 or visit www.business.tas.gov.au

For more information about Australian Government support, visit www.business.gov.au

For information about the Tasmanian Government’s $420 million stimulus package, visit www.premier.tas.gov.au

SUPPORT FOR WORKERS

It’s a very sad reality that thousands of Tasmanians will be affected by the safety measures put in place to stop the spread of coronavirus. Importantly, there is support available.

Affected workers will be supported with cash payments, increased jobseeker payments and the ability to access their superannuation early to assist during periods of unemployment relating to COVID-19.

For information about support from the Australian Government, visit www.treasury.gov.au/coronavirus/households

Hotel staff can find more information at www.health.gov.au/resources/publications/coronavir...

SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL BUSINESSES

These are extremely difficult times, and we know in times like this, Tasmanians rally together.

Many businesses are facing financial hardship as a result of the important safety measures put in place to stop the spread of COVID-19, so wherever you can, please continue to support our local businesses because they employ our local people.

Many cafes and restaurants are staying open, offering takeaways and delivery services.

You can continue to support these businesses by still getting your morning coffee from a local café, or ordering lunch to go.

That said, everyone must still adhere to the social distancing instructions that are in place while doing this.

And we need to be sensible about the way we go about our lives. We’re still seeing ridiculous panic buying at supermarkets and stores across Australia. It’s not just wrong, it’s completely unnecessary. There is enough for everyone as long as we keep our heads as our food producers can feed a population 3 times our size.

So please be considerate and kind. At a time like this, it is important we stick together as a community and support each other and help older neighbours avoid unnecessary outings.

There’s a long road ahead for all of us, but Tasmanians are strong, resilient and generous, and we will get through this together.

At the end of this, we should be able to congratulate each other for acting sensibly and generously.

For more information or advice on COVID-19, visit www.health.tas.gov.au/coronavirus