The Queensland Government has announced a further assistance to the state’s manufacturing sector in an effort to make it more resilient to the impacts of COVID-19.
Minister for Manufacturing Cameron Dick said the Government has a strong plan in place to keep manufacturers in business, protect jobs and the keep the wheels of industry turning during this turbulent time.
“If you are a manufacturer finding it difficult to access vital materials or supplies, we want to hear from you so we can assist,” Mr Dick said.
“The government is focused on providing the support needed to get our manufacturers through this crisis and keep their employees in jobs.
“To seek help and find a solution, manufacturers can complete a short form at qld.gov.au/qld-supplies.”
QMI Solutions Executive Director Shay Chalmers said the time has come for the State’s manufacturing community ‘to band together’ to overcome this huge challenge.
“We are actively retooling capabilities and activating our local capacity to get products to where they are most needed,” Ms Chalmers continued.
“Government and industry are working closely together to increase the supply of critical items and ensure continuity of supplies for our community.
“This is local manufacturing’s time to shine, we will stand together and manufacture products to support our community.”
Mr Dick said business-to-business collaboration is taking place across Queensland with government working with the Australian Industry Group to engage with industry.
He said the State Government had ‘acted swiftly’ to implement measures to make business more resilient to the effects of the virus.
“There are a range of support measures available for business such as a job support loan package, interest free loans for the first 12 months, payroll tax deferment and a $27.25 million coronavirus recovery package,” the Minister continued.
“Importantly, this week we also introduced amendments to free up restrictions to allow trucks to deliver stocks to supermarkets 24 hours a day.”
Ai Group’s Queensland head Rebecca Andrews said they welcomed the ongoing communication and collaboration, and commended the Queensland Government on ‘listening to industry and taking action’.
“Together we need to ensure local businesses survive the economic headwinds brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic and can continue to not only supply goods and services to customers, but support staff and their families,” Ms Andrews concluded.
