Economic fall-out of lockdown, and how businesses can work through it, will be the focus of the online forum

WITH many local business owners across the region grappling with the economic fallout of the state-wide COVID-19 lockdown, Member for Northern Tablelands Adam Marshall has moved to clarify what government assistance is available to help keep the doors open and staff employed, organising an online interactive information forum.

Next Tuesday, 31 August, between 2pm and 3.30pm, Mr Marshall will host the online session on Microsoft Teams, which will feature Minister for Finance and Small Business Damien Tudehope, NSW Small Business Commissioner Chris Lamont and Service NSW representatives.

Business owners from across the region are being invited to log on and have their questions answered.

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"I've had many business owners contact me in the last week confused about what support is available or struggling to navigate their way through the paperwork to access it," Mr Marshall said.

"Small businesses are the engine room of our economy, employing the vast majority of people in our region.

"It's vital they are supported during these difficult times and I'm urging business owners to get involved in this forum to learn more about available assistance programs and provide feedback on the accessibility and suitability of that support.

"Those businesses which haven't had any income since midnight Saturday, 14 August, still have bills, rates and rents to pay and I want them to understand what help is available and how to successfully access it.

"I'm pleased Minister Tudehope hand Commissioner Lamont have made themselves available for the event, alongside representatives from Service NSW."

Business owners wanting to participate in the forum need to register with Mr Marshall's office by 2pm Monday, August 30, by email northerntablelands@parliament.nsw.gov.au or by phone on 6772 5552, or 6752 5002.

"I also ask when businesses register, they provide a question they want answered, so if it doesn't get addressed on the day my office can get in touch with them to follow up," Mr Marshall said.

A link to the Microsoft Teams meeting will be emailed to the participating businesses on the Tuesday morning.

Those interested in finding out more about COVID-19 business support should visit the Service NSW website or call the 24/7 hotline in 13 77 88.

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