Australian Industry Group welcomes the launch of the Federal Government's $1 billion Economic Resilience Program, administered by the National Reconstruction Fund Corporation (NRFC), to support Australian businesses impacted by the current fuel crisis. It is a solution that recognises the scale of the challenges currently facing Australian industry.
"The Economic Resilience Program is a pragmatic and timely response to the pressures businesses are experiencing, particularly in fuel‑dependent and plastics‑intensive sectors," Chief Executive Innes Willox said.
"This initiative provides targeted, practical support at a time when many businesses are dealing with sharply higher costs and considerable uncertainty," Mr Willox said.
"Zero‑interest finance of this kind can help viable businesses stay operational, protect jobs and continue investing through a difficult period, rather than being forced to defer decisions or scale back activity.
"Access to zero‑interest finance can make a genuine difference to cash flow, investment decisions and business confidence, particularly for manufacturers and logistics operators.
"Clear communication will be critical to ensuring businesses understand how the program works and how to access support.
"We encourage businesses to review the eligibility criteria carefully and, where appropriate, speak with their bank or engage directly with the NRFC to explore available options.
"We look forward to working with the NRFC and government to help ensure this program reaches businesses that need it most," Mr Willox said.
