COVID-19: Industry update #8

Today the Australian Government has announced a $130 billion job keeper subsidy, which will provide $1500 per fortnight wage subsidy, and will go a long way in supporting businesses to maintain their staff during these incredibly challenging times.   Under the JobKeeper Payment, businesses impacted by the Coronavirus will be able to access a subsidy from the Government to continue paying their employees. Affected employers will be able to claim a fortnightly payment of $1,500 per eligible employee from 30 March 2020, for a maximum period of 6 months. 

Employer and Employee eligibility can be found here:

Together with the previous two economic packages, today’s announcement represents a total economic support of over 16% of Australia’s GDP.  Caravan Industry Association of Australia commends the government on this initiative and for their bold approach in ensuring Australian businesses and employees are supported during these times – this support package will save jobs and businesses in the caravan and camping industry.  

Manufacturing and Trade update 

Following the advice from the Prime Minister’s office on March 29th, increased social distancing measure have been enforced in public spaces however essential businesses including factories and offices may continue to operate ensuring that social distancing measures are enforced.  

For those businesses and individuals seeking to redirect their production lines to assist with supply of goods, services or knowledge in tackling the current COVID-19 outbreak in Australia, the Department of Industry, Science, Energy and Resources in partnership with the Advanced Manufacturing Growth Centre, have constructed a portal to register your interest.

We are aware of the immense challenge that businesses are currently facing regarding supply chains and distribution disruption. We are working closely with the Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Federal Government’s Supply Chain Roundtable which directly reports into the COVID-19 Business Liaison Unit, to ensure government is aware of issues specific to industry.  

Caravan Park Update

Last week was one of the most challenging we have ever experienced for accommodation providers and our RV community.  The confusion that has ensued through State Governments issuing policy on the run without considering the social and practical implications, has led to thousands of people with no fixed abode being stranded across the country as caravan parks were closed, significant fines for operators and guests due to the confusion that ensured; and over 1000 businesses now closed for general operations.  

Together with our member State Associations, we are lobbying hard to Ministers and State and Federal departments to seek clarification as well some exclusions.  To reiterate, in no way do we encourage holiday makers to go travelling this Easter, however we strongly advocate the need to ensure that caravan parks are able to provide the essential services to residents, semi residents, workers and travellers with no fixed abode.  

We, along with your State Association, will provide further advice when this comes to hand.