Dear Member/friend
While the curve hopefully may be starting to begin to flatten, social and business restrictions continue and tighten. Concurrently new economic measures are announced.
JOBKEEPER PAYMENT
Today the Prime Minister has announced a $130 Billion wage subsidy package. See this link to the press statement.https://www.pm.gov.au/media/130-billion-jobkeeper-payment-keep-australians-job
There is also a link to the ATO that enables you to register for more information.
Register now for JobKeeper Information (ATO)
Key aspects of this package are:
Also announced were changes to the income support partner pay test. The JobSeeker payment (and Coronavirus Supplement) has been subject to a partner income test. The rate has been lifted to $79,762.
COMMERCIAL TENANCIES
Yesterday the Prime Minister announced a moratorium on evictions from commercial and residential tenancies. The moratorium is for six (6) months and is in respect of circumstances when the tenants are in financial distress as a result of the Covid-19 impact.
A number of principles have been signed by the National Cabinet “to underpin and govern intervention to aid commercial tenancies."
The link to the Prime Minister's Press Release is www.pm.gov.au/media/national-cabinet-statement
The principles include:
The issue of tenancies is very complex. All tenants facing difficult times are urged to discuss their circumstances with their landlord or managing agent.
THE TWO MAN RULE AND ISOLATION
The link in relation to tenancies provides details of the restrictions surrounding social distancing.
We are down to the “two man rule” when it comes to indoor and outdoor gatherings. The existing exceptions remain for funerals (10 people), weddings (5 people), family units and people of the same household going out together. The Federal guidance is to stay at home unless you are:
Bootcamps are for two only. Playgrounds and outside skate parks are out.
These rules may be nuanced by the NSW Government.
I have been out and about in the Armidale CBD - while safely practicing social distancing. As you know a lot of places are closed or closed to clients, except by appointment. Can I just say how impressed I have been to see social distancing measured out and marked in the premises that are open and how people are going about observing it. There is however no room for complacency, beating the virus will get us back to work.
Best Wishes,
Anthony
Anthony Fox
President
Armidale Business Chamber
m. 0402 838 077
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