COVID-19 small business grants unfair says Labor

THE LABOR Party is pushing the State Government to review and reopen its Small Business Hardship Grant program.

‘When Peter Gutwein first announced the grants program in March, he said grants would be available to all small businesses suffering financial hardship as a result of COVID-19,’ Labor leader Rebecca White said.

‘But numerous businesses have contacted Labor describing a shambolic process, adding stress at a time when they were already facing pain and uncertainty, and ended with them missing out on crucial support.’

Small business minister Sarah Courtney announced on 27 April that 167 businesses had already received $15,000 before the program closed.

‘Labor has always supported these programs but the allocation of funds must be fair and equitable so that Tasmania’s small business owners and their employees can get back on their feet and be a part of the state’s recovery.’