The Victorian Government announced that it will proceed to implement a shutdown of all non-essential activity across our state to combat the spread of Coronavirus by midday.
Essential services have currently been defined as supermarkets, banks, pharmacies and other essential services including petrol stations and convenience stores. Freight, logisitics and home delivery will also remain open (including restaurants and cafes).
Non-essential indoor services such as pubs, clubs, Crown Casino, nightclubs, licenced venues, entertainment venues, cafes, restaurants, cinemas, gyms, indoor sporting venues and places of worship will be closed to the public in the interests of public health and safety as the numbers of Coronavirus in the state continue to rise. These closures may be in place for up to six months.
Premier Daniel Andrews and Treasurer Tim Pallas have announced a $1.7 billion economic survival and jobs package to complement the second stage stimulus package offered by the Federal Government.
As stated last night by the Prime Minister on behalf of the National Cabinet, the primary incentives are to save lives and save businesses and jobs.
What does this mean for small to medium business?
The packages being offered are to ensure businesses can survive, so that workers can either remain in work or can return to their places of work in the months to come. Many businesses have had to let go of casual staff and labour hire, so they can continue to operate. Businesses have negotiated leave with non-essential staff to keep themselves in business until they can return to full operation.
It is expected that the Premier will provide further announcements in the coming weeks and months.
WR law can provide you with dedicated Workplace Relations legal advice, contact Rosa Raco directly on 03 5499 6131. You can contact the following state authorities for further information:
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Disclaimer: We are passionate about helping businesses understand employment law. The content of this article is legal information, and should not be relied upon as legal advice as is not tailored to your circumstances. For advice regarding your specific circumstances, contact Rosa Raco by email rraco@wrlaw.com.au or phone 03 54996131
This article is current as at 12.40pm on 23rch March 2020.
