More Tasmanian small businesses and jobs are at risk unless the government urgently resolves serious flaws with its Small Business Emergency Support and Hardship grants program.
Labor Leader Rebecca White said numerous businesses are in limbo as they wait for a resolution of their complaints about the inequitable scheme.
"Sadly, some businesses have already closed permanently while many are now struggling to remain viable, but have inexplicably missed out on crucial funding under the government's grants program," Ms White said.
"During the last sitting of Parliament, Labor brought the Premier's attention to serious flaws with the grants program, with many businesses including Huon Valley Retreats, Margate Kennels, Puddleduck Vineyard and Lift Up Coffee Bar in Scottsdale missing out or receiving smaller grants than their competitors, with little or no explanation.
"Meanwhile, the exclusive Athanaeum Club, which counts senior Liberal employees as its members, has boasted of receiving support from the government.
"Despite the Premier's commitment to conduct a review and look into these individual cases, none of the businesses we raised with him have received a resolution.
"Every day that Peter Gutwein delays is another day closer to these businesses closing their doors for good and even more jobs being lost.
"Labor's COVID-19 Recovery Package is designed to get Tasmanians back into jobs, help those hardest hit by the pandemic and create a better, fairer and more resilient economy and society.
"Labor has always supported these grant programs but the allocation of funds must be fair and equitable. Our small businesses and the employees who rely on them for jobs deserve no less."
Rebecca White MP
Labor Leader
