Covid-19: Rex Provides Update on Route Plans

Regional Express (Rex) has provided an update for the 54 regional and remote communities that are serviced by Rex on its immediate plans for the suspension/reduction of services so that they could be prepared for the drastic changes. Rex has communicated, several times in the past two weeks, that the significant drop in passenger numbers means that air services are no longer viable.

Rex’s original plan was to shut down its entire network to conserve cash as otherwise Rex will run out of cash in a matter of weeks.

Two State governments, Queensland and Western Australia, have responded to Rex’s appeal on 19 March for a partnership approach to keep minimum essential services going. Discussions are very advanced and the new schedules for these two states will be revealed once matters are finalised. NSW has not responded.

Fortunately for regional Australia, the Federal Government has stepped in to provide funding to support one return service a week. Rex has submitted an application for this funding and the proposed flight schedules for New South Wales, South Australia, Victoria and Tasmania are available through the link below.

If Rex’s application is not successful then Rex will have to suspend services in all states without State Government assistance. The outcome for Federal funding is expected at the end of next week and in the meantime Rex will operate schedules that at least match what they have proposed for the State and Federal funding.

Rex’ Deputy Chairman, the Hon John Sharp AM said, “Rex is fully mindful of the horrifying consequences to regional and rural communities like Broken Hill that may face either not having any air services or having a dramatically reduced air service.”

“Lives could be lost because medical samples could not be tested in a timely manner or blood could not be transported. Rex had been fulfilling this critical and essential community service role in the past two decades without assistance from anyone, and often even losing money on communities with very small passenger numbers, because our heart is in the country and we were profitable enough to do so.”

“Rex apologises that it can no longer continue shouldering this burden as we are fighting for our own life. Rex’s first priority is to survive this crisis so that regional and rural communities can count on our air connections to rebuild after the crisis, and long into the future.”

“Rex wishes to once again thank the Deputy Prime Minister, Michael McCormack, and the Morrison Government for their leadership and decisiveness in stepping in so promptly to rescue regional aviation, which is ultimately a State and Local Government responsibility.” “Without this immediate intervention, Australia would not have a single regional airline left standing.”

Covid-19: Changes for Temporary Visa Holders

The Australian Government is making a number of changes to temporary visa holder arrangements during the coronavirus crisis in order to protect the health and livelihoods of Australians, support critical industries, and assist with the rapid recovery post the virus.

There are 2.17 million people presently in Australia on a temporary visa.

All were welcomed to Australia on a temporary basis for different reasons including to fill skills shortages; to study as full fee-paying international students; to visit family and friends; or to work and holiday.

They are an important part of our economy and society. For example, there are over 8,000 skilled medical professionals on temporary visas supporting our health system right now.

While citizens, permanent residents and many New Zealanders have access to unconditional work rights and government payments (including the new JobKeeper and JobSeeker payments), temporary visa holders do not.

There has always been an expectation that temporary visa holders are able to support themselves while in Australia.  The changes announced today will help facilitate this for those who may be stood down or lose work hours as a result of the coronavirus. 

In line with changes being made for Australian citizens and permanent residents, most temporary visa holders with work rights will now be able to access their Australian superannuation to help support themselves during this crisis.  

Temporary visa holders who are unable to support themselves under these arrangements over the next six months are strongly encouraged to return home. For these individuals it's time to go home, and they should make arrangements as quickly as possible.

Changes are also geared toward enabling temporary visa holders to remain in key industries, such as health, aged and disability care, agriculture and food processing. 

Importantly, they can help boost front line health numbers, get food from farms to our shops and ensure critical services continue.

Temporary visa holders are extremely valuable to the Australian economy and way of life, but the reality is that many Australians will find themselves out of work due to the dual health and economic crisis we're currently facing, and these Australians and permanent residents must be the Government's number one focus.

Visa changes

The following new measures will apply to the major classes of temporary visa holders. The situation will be reviewed periodically and further changes made if required.

Visitor visa holders

There are 203,000 international visitors in Australia, typically on a visa lasting three months or less.

International tourists should return to their home country as quickly as possible, particularly those without family support.

Thousands are already doing this and others should follow their lead.

International students

There are 565,000 international students in Australia, mainly studying in the higher education or vocational education sector. They are an important contributor to our tertiary sector and economy, supporting 240,000 Australian jobs.

Students are encouraged to rely on family support, part-time work where available and their own savings to sustain themselves in Australia.  As part of their visa application, international students have had to demonstrate that they can support themselves completely in their first year.

Students who have been here longer than 12 months who find themselves in financial hardship will be able to access their Australian superannuation.

The Government will undertake further engagement with the international education sector who already provide some financial support for international students facing hardship. For example, we understand there are some education providers that are providing fee discounts to international students.

The Government will also be flexible in cases where Coronavirus has prevented international students meeting their visa conditions (such as not being able attend classes).

International students are able to work up to 40 hours per fortnight.

International students working in aged care and as nurses have had these hours extended to support these critical sectors.

International students working in the major supermarkets had also had these hours extended to help get stock on shelves during the high demand. From 1 May, their hours will return to the maximum 40 hours a fortnight as more Australians are being recruited into these roles.

New Zealanders on 444 visas

New Zealanders and Australians have reciprocal arrangements whereby we can each stay and work in each other's country. There are more than 672,000 New Zealanders in Australia on a subclass 444 visa.

New Zealanders who are on 444 visas and arrived before 26 February 2001 will have access to welfare payments and the JobKeeper payment.

444 visa holders who arrived after 2001 have access to the JobKeeper payment. Those who have lived in Australia for 10 years or more have access to JobSeeker payments for six months.

New Zealanders should consider returning to New Zealand if they are unable to support themselves through these provisions, work or family support.

Temporary Skilled visa holders

There are around 139,000 temporary skilled visa holders, on either a 2 year or 4 year visa.  They were provided the visa to fill a skills shortage – a shortage that may still be present when the crisis has passed.

Consequently, those visa holders who have been stood down, but not laid off, will maintain their visa validity and businesses will have the opportunity to extend their visa as per normal arrangements.  Businesses will also be able to reduce the hours of the visa holder without the person being in breach of their visa condition.

These visa holders will also be able to access up to $10,000 of their superannuation this financial year.

Those visa holders who have been laid off due to coronavirus should leave the country in line with existing visa conditions if they are unable to secure a new sponsor.  However, should a 4-year visa holder be re-employed after the coronavirus pandemic, their time already spent in Australia will count towards their permanent residency skilled work experience requirements.

Working holiday makers supporting critical sectors

There are about 118,000 people in Australia on a Working Holiday visa (or backpacker visa) – a visa which provides conditional work rights.

To support the critical sectors of heath, aged and disability care, agriculture and food processing, and childcare, some limited flexibility will be provided.

In particular, working holiday makers who are working in these critical sectors will be exempt from the six month work limitation with the one employer and eligible for a further visa to keep working in these critical sectors if their current visa is due to expire in the next six months.

In general, working holiday makers that do not have the confidence to sustain themselves over the next six months should make arrangements to leave the country.

There are another 185,000 other temporary visa holders in Australia, about half of them temporary graduate visa holders. They will also be able to access their Australian superannuation if needed for support.

Covid-19: Changes to visa arrangements for agricultural workers

The Australian Government is making temporary changes to visa arrangements to help farmers access the workforce they need to secure Australia’s food and produce supply during COVID-19.

The changes allow those within the Pacific Labour Scheme, Seasonal Worker Program and working holiday makers to continue to work in agriculture and food processing until the coronavirus crisis has passed.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Michael McCormack said the Government was protecting the health of Australians by supporting businesses, providing job opportunities and securing our food supply.

“We can’t afford to see fruit rotting on trees and vines and vegetables left unpicked. It is vital our farmers maximise their hard work and economic returns,” Mr McCormack said.

“We are acting to enable seasonal workers to extend their stay and remain lawfully in Australia until they are able to return to their home countries.

“The agriculture sector relies on an ongoing workforce and we are committed to providing the means for that to continue while ensuring strict health and safety measures are adhered to, including visa holders following self-isolation requirements when they move between regions."

Minister for Agriculture David Littleproud said workforce requirements for agriculture change within and across states as different crops are ready for harvest.

“It is essential for our food security that workers can move to meet these seasonal labour needs,” Minister Littleproud said.

"At the same time it is critical we manage this labour force to support the on-going health of regional communities.

“We are working closely with State and Territory Governments and industry to ensure appropriate health controls are in place for the ongoing health and well-being of our regional communities.”

There are tough rules to ensure that COVID-19 is not transported to regional and rural communities that have thankfully not experienced the same level transmission.

Before moving to other parts of the country, working holiday makers will need to self-isolate for 14 days and register at the Australia.gov.au website. Those who do not comply will face having their visas cancelled.

The National Farmers Federation has developed best practice guidance for farmers regarding requirements for the living and working arrangements for farm workers (either domestic or migrant) during the covid-19 outbreak.

"We have asked the Chief Medical Officer to review these guidelines and it is critical that they are then considered by the Australian Health Protection Principal Committee,” Minister Littleproud said.

“Sadly, there's been a significant number of Australians who've lost their jobs due to the economic impacts of COVID-19.

“I know some farmers have seen strong interest from job ads and we are keeping market testing requirements in place to ensure recruitment of Australians first.

“We are well positioned with the decisions we’ve taken today to ensure that critical industries, such as agriculture, are well supported during this time and that Australia remains positioned to produce the food we need.”

Acting Minister for Immigration, Citizenship, Migrant Services and Multicultural Affairs Alan Tudge said agriculture is an essential sector and it relies on temporary visa holders, many who arrive and depart Australia on a seasonal basis.

“These visa holders fill a critical workforce gap in this sector,” Minister Tudge said.

“That is why the Government is putting temporary measures in place to allow important work in the agriculture sector to continue.

“We are giving certainty to our agriculture workforce so they can get food from farms to our shops and ensure critical services continue.”

The conditions under the Seasonal Worker Programme and Pacific Labour Scheme visa arrangements will be carried over to the new visa arrangements, continuing the strong links between Pacific seasonal workers and their employers.

These changes complement and are in addition to additional measures for temporary visa holders announced by Minister Tudge.

Key Facts

• Seasonal Worker Programme and Pacific Labour Scheme workers can extend their stay for up to 12 months to work for approved employers (ensuring pastoral care and accommodation needs of workers are met to minimise health risks to visa holders and the community).

• Approved employers under the Seasonal Worker Programme and Pacific Labour Scheme will need to continue engaging with the Department of Education, Skills and Employment on labour market testing to ensure recruitment of Australians first.

• Working Holiday Makers (WHMs) who work in agriculture or food processing will be exempt from the six month work limitation with the one employer and eligible for a further visa to keep working in these critical sectors if their current visa is due to expire in the next six months.

• Conditions will be placed upon visa holders to self-isolate for 14 days before taking up employment in a different region (including termination of visas where there is non-compliance).

• To support implementation of self-isolation arrangements for visa holders and avoid spread of COVID-19 the government is working with states and territories on enforcement and sanction mechanisms.

• Employers will need to commit to providing safe accommodation for agricultural workers that complies with social distancing requirements.

• Arrangement will also need to be in place for a declaration between employers and employees that all protocols necessary to ensure human health and accommodation requirements have been met.

Covid-19: TAFE NSW offers 21 Fee-Free Short Courses

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, TAFE NSW, in conjunction with the NSW Government, is offering a number of fee-free* short courses that can be completed in just days or weeks, offering practical skills and experiences across a range of industries.

It’s hoped that the free courses will provide an opportunity for people to upskill while in home isolation, either to add to their existing skills and employment or to gain new skills in preparation for returning to the workforce.

Courses on offer cover Administration Skills, Enhancing Your Digital Impact, Grow Health and Medical Knowledge, Improve Leadership Performance, and Practical Business Skills.

Covid-19: New Australian Government Jobs Hub

In this rapidly changing jobs market, the Australian Government is supporting businesses and those Australians looking for work by launching a jobs hub.

While many businesses have been adversely affected by COVID-19 and are reducing their workforces, there are some areas of the economy which have an increased demand for workers.

This includes jobs in health and care sectors, transport and logistics, some areas of retail, mining and mining services, manufacturing, agriculture and government sectors, among others.

The Jobs Hub helps you find advertised vacancies.

There are connections to employers with multiple job opportunities and Australian Government Jobs as well as the ability to search jobs by location.

The site also includes assistance for employers who are hiring, particularly those who are quickly scaling up their workforce.

Department of Regional NSW to take on urgent needs of the bush

The NSW Government today established the new Department of Regional NSW to better coordinate support for communities, businesses and farmers in the bush that have endured drought, bushfire and flood and now face the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional NSW John Barilaro said the department will bring together Primary Industries, Local Land Services, Resources and Geoscience and regional coordination across government to form a central agency dedicated to regional issues. 

“We are urgently responding to the desperate needs of people in the regions and this new agency will work to ensure community wellbeing, resilient economies and strong key regional industries,” Mr Barilaro said. 

“We know that the issues faced by the people of Cootamundra are very different to those faced in Coogee and so it is imperative we have a government designed to properly support every corner of this state. 

“The COVID-19 pandemic has made a big impact on what has already been a devastating start to 2020, as farmers continue to suffer through the worst drought in recorded history and towns torn apart by bushfires continue to feel the effects months on.  

“The new Department of Regional NSW will be a voice in government for people in the bush and will have a laser-like focus on the challenges and opportunities unique to regional communities, helping them to get through hardships many of us have not seen in our time.

“This department will allow a more streamlined response to regional issues as experts in areas such as primary industries, land management, resources, regional development, drought response and bushfire recovery work closer together than ever before.”

Mr Barilaro said the department will drive the delivery of recent bushfire and COVID-19 stimulus and industry recovery packages along with the NSW Government’s drought initiatives, $1.7 billion Regional Growth Fund and $4.2 billion Snowy Hydro Legacy Fund.

“I said that regional communities would get their fair share and to date, we have fulfilled that commitment, from securing billions in funding to the urgent measures we have rolled out for farmers, business owners and families,” Mr Barilaro said.

The Department of Regional NSW will be led by incoming Secretary Gary Barnes, currently the Coordinator General, Regional NSW, Department of Planning, Industry and Environment.

Covid-19: Locals to fill the medical supply chain

The NSW Government is calling on manufacturers around the State to help fill gaps in the global supply of medical equipment and hygiene products, redeploying spare capacity to save lives and jobs.

Premier Gladys Berejiklian and Minister for Jobs, Investment, Tourism and Western Sydney Stuart Ayres today launched a portal for companies to offer to build parts or supply eight urgently needed items during the COVID-19 crisis.

Ms Berejiklian said the world was running short on hand sanitiser, handwash soap, gloves, cleaning products, protective clothing, masks, eyewear and paper products.

“This is a call to arms for NSW manufacturers to look at ways to convert production lines into making the items we so desperately need,” Ms Berejiklian said.

“We have the ability within NSW to meet our local demand and the Government is moving to help manufacturers re-tool quickly to achieve this.

“Importantly, providing this opportunity to manufacturers will also allow some businesses to keep people in jobs when they may not have been able to do so.”

Local alcohol makers are already converting to produce items such as hand sanitiser, while other firms have switched to face masks, providing much-needed equipment while keeping their business going and safeguarding jobs.

With supply of Personal Protective Equipment and disinfectant expected to be constrained for at least 12 months, further opportunities exist for other NSW companies to join them.

Mr Ayres said the Government will use information provided through the portal to connect the supply chain so more finished products can be provided where needed.

“This is an opportunity for businesses to not only diversify their supply but produce incredibly important products for our State in a time of need,” Mr Ayres said.

“We will work to find solutions to provide our hospitals and our people with the protection they need, while keeping as many workers as possible in a job,” Mr Ayres said.

Businesses can register their interest from Wednesday, 1 April.

Covid-19: $110 million initiative Securing freight access for Australian agricultural and fisheries exporters

A new $110 million initiative will back Australia’s agricultural and fisheries sector by helping them export their high-quality produce into key overseas markets, with return flights bringing back vital medical supplies, medicines and equipment.  

In addition, around $10 million in Australian Fisheries Management Authority (AFMA) levies will also be waived for all Commonwealth fishers, ensuring they do not have to pay Commonwealth levies for the remainder of 2020. 

Deputy Prime Minister Michael McCormack said the International Freight Assistance Mechanism would help secure freight flights into Australia’s key export markets. 

“This will help restore key freight routes for our farmers until commercial capacity can be restored again,” Mr McCormack said.

“We are doing everything possible to help our high-value agricultural and fisheries exporters get their produce on airplanes and into overseas markets.

“Everything we are doing as a Government in response to this pandemic is focused on saving lives and saving livelihoods and we know our agriculture industry is key to this.” 

Federal Trade Minister Simon Birmingham said the COVID-19 pandemic had led to major air freight shortages and had disrupted supply chains around the world.
 
“This temporary action will help Australian producers to protect the jobs of those who rely upon Australia’s export of safe, quality food into the world,” Minister Birmingham said. 

“Getting our export sector back on its feet is crucial to reduce job losses through the crisis and a critical part of the ultimate economic recovery. 

“By getting flights off the ground, full of Australian produce, we’re supporting our farmers and fishers who have been hit hard by this crisis.”

Federal Agriculture Minister David Littleproud said this initiative would focus on high-demand agricultural and fisheries exports who have been hit hard by the COVID-19 crisis.
 
“We’re backing our farmers by making sure they can get more of their high-quality product into overseas markets,” Minister Littleproud said.
 
“The more agricultural exports we can secure, the more regional jobs we can protect.”

Assistant Minister for Forestry and Fisheries Jonno Duniam said the freight assistance and levy relief was a lifeline for Australian fishers.

“The fishing industry was one of the first hit when access to China was cut off in January, bringing many in the industry to their knees,” Assistant Minister Duniam said.

“Unlocking key international markets will get thousands of fishers, divers, deckhands and processors back on the job, and the levy relief will help to keep fishers financially afloat. 

“Our seafood industry has been built on the back of some of the toughest and most resilient Australians, and this assistance will ensure that the sector can build a bridge to recovery.”

The International Freight Assistance Mechanism will initially focus on the key markets of China, Japan, Hong Kong, Singapore and the UAE, with four key departure hubs: Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane and Perth.

It will be overseen by Mr Michael Byrne, who has been appointed as the International Freight Coordinator General. Mr Byrne has significant international logistics experience as Managing Director of Australia’s two largest logistics companies Toll Holdings and Linfox plus as a non-executive director of Australia Post.  

Mr Byrne will work with Austrade to help establish arrangements with exporters, airlines, freight forwarders and industry bodies plus oversee the mechanism’s operations including advising the Government of destinations, freight selection and prioritisation.  

The initiative is part of the Government’s $1 billion Relief and Recovery Fund to support regions, communities and industry sectors that have been disproportionately affected by COVID-19.  

Covid-19: Support for Business from your bank

If you’re dealing with the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, or facing the impacts of drought, bushfire or flood, there are practical ways your bank can help

Australian banks have hardship teams ready to help you, depending on your circumstances.

Assistance could include:

• deferring loan payments,

• waiving fees and charges,

• helping with debt consolidation,

• waiving penalties for early withdrawal of a term deposit or

• deferring upcoming credit card payments and increasing emergency limits

Contact details if you’re doing it tough

Contact your bank’s financial hardship team on the web or on the phone.

A downloadable list is available here.

Covid-19: Expressions of Interest Sought for Swab Suppliers

An Expression of Interest published on AusTender is seeking to identify suppliers of swabs used for testing for COVID-19 in Australia as well as other equipment such as gloves, goggles and gowns.

The required swabs collect samples from the nose and throat and are the critical first stage of the testing process for COVID-19. Diagnosis is the important first step in both treating affected individuals and, through isolation and quarantine, reducing the risk of transmission and infection.  

Given current global demand for supplies related to COVID-19, the Australian Government is working to ensure reliable and sustainable supplies to collection centres such as laboratories and hospitals.  The supply of traditional swabs is a critical part of the Australian Government's health response to the COVID-19 outbreak. Any questions associated with the Expression of Interest may be directed by email to covidtestingsupplies@industry.gov.au.

Please note responses to the Expression of Interest will close on Wednesday 25 March 2020. 

Q. Where can I find the information for the RFI?

The information is available via AusTender and also on the Department of Industry, Science, Energy and Resources' website.

Q. Who can I contact if I have questions about the RFI?

All questions are to be sent via email to PersonalProtectiveEquipment@industry.gov.au. The Department of Industry, Science, Energy and Resources will respond to questions via AusTender in the form of an addenda.

Covid-19 Relaxation of Student Visa Working Hours

Some sectors including Supermarkets and Aged Care facilities will be able to apply for relaxation of enforcement of student visa working hours.

This will allow them to give more working hours to international students who are currently restricted to 40 hours per fortnight.

International students ready to fill critical staff shortages in aged care

Find out more on the Department of Home Affairs Website

Covid-19: Business Conditions Survey

Due to the current mounting pressures on businesses, Business NSW are requesting your support in completing this special edition of their Business Conditions Survey in order to better understand the impact of coronavirus, bushfires, drought and other weather-related events. 
 
This survey aims to provide an honest and comprehensive analysis of economic trends, opportunities and challenges for businesses in NSW.
 
Your participation will also give you the chance to win a $500 EFTPOS gift card* or a runner-up prize that you can choose to spend in your local community.

Covid-19: Arts Impact Survey

It's been a difficult time for the creative and cultural industries with many events being downscaled, postponed, or cancelled - and artists are feeling the immediate effects. Western Riverina Arts are currently working with organisations across our region to devise strategies to deal with the current situation.

National Association for the Visual Arts is working closely with national peak organisations as well as state and federal ministries and government departments to understand these impacts and represent them in detail, so that government at all levels is in the best position to consider urgent policy and funding responses.

Has your work, or cultural and creative activities been affected? It is essential we get feedback from our Western Riverina community to better understand these impacts comprehensively. Please take the time to share and complete this survey.

Covid-19: Self-care for Clinicians

Three Rivers University Department of Rural Health would like to support all health professionals and staff to access free online courses to support their knowledge with the anticipated increase use of telehealth in clinical services and general wellbeing of self-care for clinicians with measures being put in place for COVID 19.

Self-Care for Clinicians – This short course focuses on strategies to reduce stress and promote greater wellbeing as a clinician. Further information can be found at Three Rivers Rural Clinical Education Support

Covid-19: Telehealth - Embracing Technology in Healthcare

Three Rivers University Department of Rural Health would like to support all health professionals and staff to access free online courses to support their knowledge with the anticipated increase use of telehealth in clinical services and general wellbeing of self-care for clinicians with measures being put in place for COVID 19.

This course is designed to facilitate learning and understanding about telehealth services so clinicians can begin to include it in their provision of healthcare and learn more about best practice in telehealth service delivery.

Telehealth is recognised as a growing adjunct to health service delivery, especially in rural areas. It is expected that all health professionals, and students graduating from health courses, should be familiar with the opportunities and challenges of telehealth services. This course is designed to facilitate your learning and understanding about telehealth services so that you can begin to include it in your provision of healthcare and learn more about best practice in telehealth service delivery. 

Telehealth - Embracing technology in healthcare aims to:

• Provide key concepts of telehealth and its role within healthcare

• Educate health students and professionals to deliver appropriate telehealth services

• Promote the awareness and opportunities to incorporate telehealth in healthcare delivery

Course content, patient scenarios, resources, and guides have a focus on the current telehealth practice within the Three Rivers footprint. The modules have been designed to be easy to navigate and to include interactive opportunities for students and health professionals.

Webinar Covid-19: The Impacts on Tourism

To support our regional tourism communities during these unprecedented times, Australian Regional Tourism (ART) is hosting an online panel discussion to provide guidance to local governments supporting their local tourism operators and industry through the impacts of COVID-19.

A panel discussion will be facilitated by Coralie Bell, ART Chair and Tourism Manager at Shoalhaven City Council.
 
The webinar agenda may vary based on the changing nature of the situation, with discussion to cover:
  - Event cancellations, including private and government-managed events
  - Accommodation bookings and managing cancellations
  - Managing visitor communication and facilities
 
WHERE: Online, REGISTER HERE
WHEN: Thursday 19th March 2020
TIME: 12-1pm (AEDT), including 15 min Q&A

If you are unable to attend the webinar, recordings will be sent to registered participants and each session will also be accessible from The Tourism Hub.

Registrations are essential for this free event.

Covid-19: NSW Government Announces $2.3 Billion Health Boost and Economic Stimulus

The NSW Government has announced a major $2.3 billion health boost and economic stimulus package to protect the community and help protect jobs in the face of the COVID-19 outbreak over the next six months.

This package has two key components: $700 million in extra health funding and $1.6 billion in tax cuts to support jobs.

Key elements of the NSW COVID-19 package include:

Health boost

• $700 million extra funding for NSW Health. This will assist in doubling ICU capacity, preparing for additional COVID-19 testing, purchasing additional ventilators and medical equipment, establishing acute respiratory clinics and bringing forward elective surgeries to private hospitals.

Business support and jobs 

• $450 million for the waiver of payroll tax for businesses with payrolls of up to $10 million for three months (the rest of 2019-20). This means these businesses will save a quarter of their annual payroll tax bill in 2019-20

• $56 million to bring forward the next round of payroll tax cuts by raising the threshold limit to $1 million in 2020-21

• $80 million to waive a range of fees and charges for small businesses including bars, cafes, restaurants and tradies

• $250 million to employ additional cleaners of public infrastructure such as transport assets, schools and other public buildings

• More than $250 million to bring forward maintenance on public assets including social housing and crown land fencing

• $500 million to bring forward capital works and maintenance.

Premier Gladys Berejiklian said the NSW Government’s package bolstered the health system, cuts taxes for business that employed tens of thousands of people across the
State, and would help secure jobs at a very challenging time.

“Our first priority is always the health of the people of this State and looking after their families and jobs,” Ms Berejiklian said.

“This package works hand-in-hand with the recent moves by the Reserve Bank of Australia and the Federal Government. It will provide more resources to help slow the spread of this virus and boost treatment for those people in our community who need it most.

NSW Treasurer Dominic Perrottet said the NSW package would help businesses struggling with a once-in-a-generation event.

“The Government stands ready to do whatever it takes to keep people safe and ensure our economy withstands this storm,” Mr Perrottet said.

“Today we are injecting $700 million into the health system and almost $1.6 billion to boost business. In simple terms, this money will help save the lives of loved ones and protect jobs.

“We are supporting business by lowering their costs through tax cuts and fee reductions, and working to boost jobs by funding ready-to-go capital work and maintenance projects as a priority.”

Health Minister Brad Hazzard said the Government was doing whatever it took to support front line health workers, and urged people to follow important safety messages.

“Our health workers are doing an amazing job,” Mr Hazzard said.

“This extra funding backs the work of our doctors, nurses, allied health staff, ambulance officers and support staff in the fight to prevent the spread of and prepare for COVID-19.”

Covid-19: Federal Government Announces $17.6 Billion Economic Stimulus Package

The Government has announced a $17.6 billion economic plan as the world deals with the significant challenges posed by the spread of the coronavirus.

The targeted stimulus package is focused on keeping Australians in jobs and helping small and medium sized businesses to stay in business. 

The package has four parts:

• Supporting business investment

• Providing cash flow assistance to help small and medium sized business to stay in business and keep their employees in jobs

• Targeted support for the most severely affected sectors, regions and communities;

• Household stimulus payments that will benefit the wider economy

Prime Minister Scott Morrison said as part of the plan up to 6.5 million individuals and 3.5 million businesses would be directly supported by the package.

“Just as we have acted decisively to protect the health of the Australian people, based on the best evidence and medical advice, our support package responds to the economic challenges presented by this pandemic in a timely, proportionate and targeted way,” the Prime Minister said.

“Our plan will back Australian households with a stimulus payment to boost growth, bolster domestic confidence and consumption, reduce cash flow pressures for businesses and support new investments to lift productivity.

“Australia is not immune to the global coronavirus challenge but we have already taken steps to prepare for this looming international economic crisis.

“Our targeted stimulus package will focus on keeping Australians in jobs and keeping businesses in business so we can bounce back strongly.

Support for business investment

• $700 million to increase the instant asset write off threshold from $30,000 to $150,000 and expand access to include businesses with aggregated annual turnover of less than $500 million (up from $50 million) until 30 June 2020. For example, assets that may be able to be immediately written off are a concrete tank for a builder, a tractor for a farming business, and a truck for a delivery business.

• $3.2 billion to back business investment by providing a time limited 15 month investment incentive (through to 30 June 2021) to support business investment and economic growth over the short term, by accelerating depreciation deductions. Businesses with a turnover of less than $500 million will be able to deduct an additional 50 per cent of the asset cost in the year of purchase.

These measures will support over 3.5 million businesses (over 99 per cent of businesses) employing more than 9.7 million employees or 3 in every 4 workers. The measures are designed to support business sticking with investment they had planned, and encouraging them to bring investment forward to support economic growth over the short term.

Cash flow assistance for businesses

• $6.7 billion to Boost Cash Flow for Employers by up to $25,000 with a minimum payment of $2,000 for eligible small and medium-sized businesses. The payment will provide cash flow support to businesses with a turnover of less than $50 million that employ staff, between 1 January 2020 and 30 June 2020. The payment will be tax free. This measure will benefit around 690,000 businesses employing around 7.8 million people. Businesses will receive payments of 50 per cent of their Business Activity Statements or Instalment Activity Statement from 28 April with refunds to then be paid within 14 days.

• $1.3 billion to support small businesses to support the jobs of around 120,000 apprentices and trainees. Eligible employers can apply for a wage subsidy of 50 per cent of the apprentice’s or trainee’s wage for up to 9 months from 1 January 2020 to 30 September 2020. Where a small business is not able to retain an apprentice, the subsidy will be available to a new employer that employs that apprentice.

Stimulus payments to households to support growth

• $4.8 billion to provide a one-off $750 stimulus payment to pensioners, social security, veteran and other income support recipients and eligible concession card holders. Around half of those that will benefit are pensioners. The payment will be tax free and will not count as income for Social Security, Farm Household Allowance and Veteran payments. There will be one payment per eligible recipient. If a person qualifies for the one off payment in multiple ways, they will only receive one payment.

Payments will be from 31 March 2020 on a progressive basis, with over 90 per cent of payments expected to be made by mid-April.

Assistance for severely-affected regions

• $1 billion to support those sectors, regions and communities that have been disproportionately affected by the economic impacts of the Coronavirus, including those heavily reliant on industries such as tourism, agriculture and education. This will include the waiver of fees and charges for tourism businesses that operate in the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park and Commonwealth National Parks. It will also include additional assistance to help businesses identify alternative export markets or supply chains. Targeted measures will also be developed to further promote domestic tourism. Further plans and measures to support recovery will be designed and delivered in partnership with the affected industries and communities.

The Government is also offering administrative relief for certain tax obligations, including deferring tax payments up to four months. This is similar to relief provided following the bushfires for taxpayers affected by the coronavirus, on a case-by-case basis.  The ATO will set up a temporary shop front in Cairns within the next few weeks with dedicated staff specialising in assisting small business. In addition, the ATO will consider ways to enhance its presence in other significantly affected regions to make it easier for people to apply for relief, including considering further temporary shop fronts and face-to-face options.

Bushfire Recovery Event Funding

Snowy Valleys Council has partnered with Destination Riverina Murray to allocate event funding support to local communities as part of the bushfire recovery process. 

Council was awarded funding through the Bushfire Community Resilience and Economic Recovery Fund, from the Commonwealth-State Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements to help deliver quick, flexible, small-scale support for locally led community and economic recovery events and activities. 

There are three categories of funding support available:

• Major Events

• Community Events

• Business Events

Major Events

Major events that will boost tourism and support local businesses are encouraged to seek support of between $5,000 and $10,000, for an event that will be held in the region before October 31, 2020.

Examples of ways the Major Events funding can be used include:

- Marketing support to promote the event to visitors living outside the Snowy Valleys Region

- Shuttle buses to and from the event from major centres including Wagga, Albury and Canberra.

- Event infrastructure to increase capacity such as power, water stations, tables, chairs, food vendors, fencing.

- Infrastructure to allow a town or area to accommodate more people overnight.

- Securing a major artist, performer or keynote speaker that will attract a bigger audience.

- Event management and coordination to reduce the burden on communities and volunteers.

Community Events

Community events that will support community and neighborhood strengthening can apply for up to $2,500 in funding to support an event that will be held in the region before October 31, 2020. 

Examples of ways the Community Events funding can be used include:

- Venue hire and event infrastructure to increase capacity such as power, water stations, tables, chairs, food vendors, fencing.

- Securing a performer or keynote speaker, including covering travel and accommodation costs.

- Event management and coordination to reduce the burden on communities and volunteers.

Business Events

Business events that will support business development including attracting a keynote speaker or hosting a conference/workshop can apply for up to $5,000 in funding to support an event that will be held in the region before October 31, 2020.

Examples of ways the Business Events funding can be used include:

- Engaging a business development expert or organisation to curate and coordinate the event.

- Securing a keynote speaker that will attract a bigger audience, including covering travel and accommodation costs.

- Venue hire and event infrastructure to increase capacity such as power, water stations, tables, chairs, food vendors, fencing.

- Event management and coordination to reduce the burden on communities and volunteers.

How to Apply

Event owners/committees should contact either Destination Riverina Murray or the tourism and events team at Snowy Valleys Council to discuss their event and the proposal for funding support.

Events will then be encouraged to submit a short proposal along with any supporting documentation. The proposal will then be considered by the Snowy Valleys Tourism and Business

Bushfire sub-committee and a recommendation will then be made to the Snowy Valleys Council CEO regarding the funding.

The process is designed to be quick and easy, with an aim to assess and notify the event owner of the outcome within 14 days of making the submission. The step-by-step process is outlined in the following section.

Contact for Questions

Evan Saunders, Event Activation Officer, Snowy Valleys Council

E: esaunders@svc.nsw.gov.au

P: 0438 566 542

Richie Robinson, General Manager, Destination Riverina Murray

E: richie.robinson@destinationrm.com.au

P: 0418 439 202

Bridge Hub 2020 Water Challenge

Craig Shapiro, Co-CEO and Founder, The Bridge Hub

Identifying water problems the first step to finding solutions

●       Bridge Hub 2020 Water Challenge aims to solve water problems and help drought-proof Australia

●       Ambitious Challenge program starts with problem identification

●       Cash prizes for the most compelling problems – entries open now

While debate around water policy continues, Bridge Hub is working on finding practical solutions to water problems in Australia and around the world, and it is starting by calling on people across Australia to help decide where to focus first.

Bridge Hub is an agrifood tech innovation hub for the Australian and global agri-food tech industry with offices in Wagga Wagga, Sydney and Israel. It has deeply established relationships in the well-established Israeli innovation ecosystem as it seeks to create commercialisation pathways to bring great ideas and research to market.

It is about to launch the 2020 Water Challenge, which aims to identify and commercialise promising research and new technology that will allow the agriculture and food production sector to be smarter with its use of water.

Ahead of the 2020 Water Challenge, Bridge Hub is crowd-sourcing input on its problem statements, so that it can ensure the projects it supports will have real impact where it’s most needed.

 “We want to identify the problems that, if solved, will have a measurable and positive impact on drought proofing the Australian and global agrisystem,” Bridge Hub Co-CEO Craig Shapiro says.

“As the drought continues and following the devastation of the recent bushfires and floods, there is much discussion around water and how we make changes now that can ease the impact of future events.”

At the evokeAG conference in February Bridge Hub ran a challenge wall for delegates to submit their answers to the question ‘if you had access to the brightest minds in the world, what water problem would you ask them to solve?’

The number and depth of responses was described as ‘amazing’. Problems ranging from evaporation, water runoff and the lack of wastewater use to the energy costs to pump water were just a few of those put forward.

“We’re excited to see what other problems we can identify now we’ve broadened the call for problem submissions. Ensuring we get different perspectives is critical to making sure we’re solving the right problems,” Craig says.

Four prizes of A$1,000 each will be awarded for the submission of problems that, if solved, would have the greatest impact on the agrisystem.

Once the problem statements are decided, the Water Challenge will be officially launched in late March. Researchers, start-ups and students will have the opportunity to submit their solutions, with cash prizes, investment and funding for trials of at least A$150,000 to be awarded to the best applicants.

Problems can be submitted until March 15, when the challenge will move into the next phase of finding solutions.

“We’re excited to see what problems come from the people who live with water challenges every day. We know there are solutions out there – identifying the right problems to solve is just the start,” Craig says.

Sharing a problem is easy. Just visit https://thebridgehub.co/problem and complete a brief entry form.