Thursday 2 September 2021
NSW's key lifestyle industries are working together to support the NSW government in its plan to
take charge of the State's post vaccine future and open up when we reach 70% vaccination.
The Tourism & Transport Forum Australia (TTF), the Australian Retailers Association (ARA), the NSW
Australian Hotels Association (AHA) and the Australian Restaurant and Catering Association (RCA)
have joined forces to help prepare their sectors to be in the 'starting gates' ready to welcome
vaccinated customers into their venues, shops, destinations and events.
"As critical customer facing industries, we are backing the NSW Government with their plan to open
selected businesses like ours, when we hit that magical 70% target," AHA NSW CEO John Whelan
said.
"These businesses and our customers need a light at the end of the lockdown tunnel and something
to look forward to. They also need to be clear that as industries we have their safety and the safety
of our staff, as our number one priority. Right now, that means vaccinated staff and customers - it is
all about safety and hope, TTF Chief Executive Margy Osmond said.
"We collectively represent over 1 million employees in NSW and they want to get back to work and
help NSW get back to normal as soon as possible, while being ever conscious of the health needs,"
Wes Lambert CEO of RCA said.
"We want to encourage all our loyal customers and clients to get the jab, download their certificate
and come celebrate with a drink at the pub, a great weekend away, a terrific meal out, the hairdo
you have been hanging out for, a spot of retail therapy and a night at the cinema or the theatre,"
ARA CEO Paul Zahra said.
The industries said they looked forward to further opportunities to open up, including broader
shopping and retail, arts and cultural venues and eventually events and intrastate travel and to have
other states and territories following suit.
"We look forward to supporting the Government and encouraging everyone to get vaccinated, as we
head for what our industries hope, will be a brighter October and a very merry Christmas."
