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Andrews Labor Government 'to work from home if possible' causing strain in many businesses within CBD's across Victoria says Russell Northe

Member for Morwell Russell Northe submits questions to parliament for the minister for industry support and recovery.

By news@gippsland - 16th February 2022 - Back to News

Member for Morwell Russell Northe has submitted a number of questions in parliament for the consideration of the Minister for Industry Support and Recovery with respect to the state government's recommendation that, "Workers are encouraged to work from home if possible. The current suggestion from the government 'to work from home if possible' is causing additional strain on many businesses and business owners within CBD's across the state" Mr Northe began.

To ensure the safety of all workers and the community, as comprehensive pandemic response plan, workers in offices and professional services were still expected to work from home or a single site where reasonably practical

Businesses and workers suffering

Whilst the state government contends the work from home advice is not a directive, the reality is many workers and public servants are adhering to this same advice which means many businesses who rely on the trade of workers coming into their CBD's to purchase goods, items and food are now suffering.

After what has already been a very tumultuous two years for business owners with many struggling to keep their doors open, they now must also contend with a large downturn in foot traffic which is adding to the financial pressure they are already facing.

No financial support and assistance

Mr Northe questioned the Minister as to when it's acknowledged that businesses are suffering from financial hardship due to the "Workers are encouraged to work from home if possible" recommendation, why has the government not provided or offered any financial support and assistance for the small business sector.

"I have been in discussions with several business owners who are struggling due to the downturn in foot traffic that coincides with the lack of workers and public servants frequenting our CBD's." said Mr Northe.

"Along with the downturn in foot traffic many local residents have also approached my office stating that access to many important government services are being compromised due to the 'work from home if possible' recommendation that is in place" added Mr Northe.

Removing work from home advice

We still have a cohort of people who prefer or need to have face to face interactions with staff of government departments and agencies, yet there are severe limitations on this occurring at present which relate to some of the issues people are faced with.

Mr Northe is seeking to understand when the government will remove the 'Workers are encouraged to work from home if possible' advice and what financial support will be provided to businesses who are suffering from this same Government advice.

Pictures from Russell Northe MP Facebook page.

Source: www.gippsland.com

Published by: news@gippsland.com

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  Victoria’s fire season begins amid total bans, with experts warning mismanaged forests and inadequate fuel reduction under Labor leave communities exposed to devastating megafires.
• Tim Bull criticises sudden last-minute VLine reductions from six to three carriages, causing tension due to limited rolling stock
  Victorian country train passengers are forced to stand up to four hours after last-minute carriage cuts, with MP Tim Bull urging PSOs and additional services to protect booked seating.
• East Gippsland Business Support Voucher Program boosts small businesses through tailored mentoring and strategic growth guidance
  Orbost Snowy River Cycling benefited from East Gippsland Council Business Support Voucher Program, receiving tailored mentoring that strengthened business planning, resilience, and growth, enabling expansion and long-term success in the region.
• Life Saving Victoria launches multilingual campaign to protect older adults around water, heat and rip currents
  Life Saving Victoria has launched a multilingual campaign to help older adults, especially from multicultural communities, stay safe around water and during extreme heat across Victoria.
• Free visitor information materials help East Gippsland businesses guide visitors quickly and easily summer
  East Gippsland Shire Council is providing free QR-code posters, stickers and magnets to help businesses quickly connect visitors with maps, attractions, events and essential information via the Visit East Gippsland website.
• Life Saving Victoria urges water safety precautions as heatwave drives crowds to beaches and pools
  Life Saving Victoria warns Victorians to prioritise water safety during this week’s 40°C heatwave, swim at patrolled locations, supervise children, avoid alcohol, and always swim with a friend.
• Wellington Shire Council responds to AKD Yarram closure, pledges support for 73 affected workers and community
  Wellington Shire Council expressed heartbreak over AKD Yarram’s closure, impacting 73 employees, pledging support, advocating state assistance, and encouraging redeployment and economic opportunities to sustain the community.
• Martin Cameron urges Energy Minister to lift outdated coal overlays blocking 2000 new homes in Traralgon
  Nationals MP Martin Cameron criticised Minister Lily D'Ambrosio for refusing to review outdated coal overlays blocking 2000 new homes in Traralgon, despite studies confirming land stability for development.