The Australian Hotels Association (WA), while welcoming key changes to WA’s Level 1 and Level 2 COVID-19 Business Assistance Packages, has warned the state’s service-based industries face serious challenges going forward.
Acknowledging the WA government had done an “outstanding job in containing COVID-19, AHA(WA) CEO, Bradley Woods said reduced consumer confidence is set to heavily impact hospitality venues across the state.
“There are still many unknowns for the WA hospitality industry in the weeks and months ahead,” Mr Woods said.
“And the AHA will maintain ongoing communication and engagement with the WA Government to ensure it is abreast of the severity of the impact on the industry.”
As part of the changes to its Business Assistance Packages, the government has reduced the timeframe that businesses need to demonstrate a downturn in revenue will result in them being able to access financial assistance sooner.
“The Level 2 COVID-19 Business Assistance Package in particular contains meaningful support,” Mr Wood said.
“And today’s adjustments to the scheme will result in businesses being able to receive material relief.
“We commend the WA Government for listening to the concerns of the business community and addressing the eligibility thresholds,” Mr Woods said.
Mike Parker-Brown is a UK-trained and qualified journalist and an award-winning travel communicator with more than 30 years experience.
Since 2002, Mike has worked as a freelance writer and PR consultant providing his services to major organisations in Australia and internationally in the tourism, aviation, hospitality, recruitment and export marketing sectors.