SMALL BUSINESSES ON KANGAROO ISLAND MUST BE HEARD IN NATIONAL DISASTER RESPONSE

January 13, 2020

The Shadow Minister for Small Business, Employment, Industry and Science today visited small businesses affected by the devastating bushfires on Kangaroo Island.
 
Many small businesses on Kangaroo Island have lost their livelihoods due to devastating bushfires, and face continuing economic uncertainty as the bushfires continue, and well after the fires.
 
While on Kangaroo Island, Mr O’Connor will meet with local business owners and members of the community to hear their concerns and offer support in this difficult time.
 
Labor urges the Morrison Government to ensure Australian small and family business voices are heard and to provide an appropriate and immediate response. Small businesses will continue to face pain and suffering from the current emergency, and need help to also prepare them for future risks.
 
Small businesses are resilient and active community members, as demonstrated by the small businesses who were among the first to respond to the bushfire crisis – whether that be by remaining open all hours, offering meals and shelter, or volunteering.
 
Many small businesses are owner-operators and face the same risks as employees exposed to environmental hazards like smoke.
 
The bushfire crisis is a national emergency requiring a national response.
 
Government inaction and unpreparedness in a national emergency harms the health and safety of small businesses and their workforce.