The Australian Tourism Industry Council (ATIC) has backed today’s Federal Government announced extension and changes in eligibility to the ongoing JobKeeper Program.ATIC Executive Director Simon Westaway said:
“JobKeeper has been incredibly valued public policy support by helping maintain sustainable
enterprises and stabilising our core tourism industry workforce as we strive to get through the
collective impacts of this virus’ terrible second wave.
“ATIC has been a consistent advocate for JobKeeper because it’s a policy prescription that’s
working!
“But to Government we have been a persistent preacher for the Program in its future application to
be adaptable and flexible within the rapidly changing economic and commercial landscape
because of COVID-19.
“The Morrison Government’s decision to extend eligibility for JobKeeper from 1 March 2020 to 1
July 2020 is strongly welcomed and we believe will capture and target much-needed support to
many more eligible tourism businesses across Victoria as well as other parts of the country.
“Whilst awaiting the full detail we hope and anticipate many traditional and seasonal tourism
businesses operating across northern Australia, not previously eligible for JobKeeper, will be far
better placed to qualify for the Program under future new eligibility criteria.
“Under the original JobKeeper many of these Northern Australian businesses were not eligible at
its establishment, as most of their operations commence post 1 March for the dry season and
employ a regular seasonal workforce. We hope and anticipate this anomaly will be addressed.”
.jpg){kind=tracking}