This afternoon the Prime Minister outlined the roadmap for Australia to get moving again. Baby steps first to test the waters, then a gradual three-step process to get us back to what will be the new normal.
This pandemic is affecting everyone worldwide, but I think most would agree you would rather be in Australia than anywhere else.
This scourge is affecting businesses in much the same way as it affects people. The businesses with “health problems” before the epidemic are facing much more of a fight generally that “healthy businesses”, and some will perish.
No doubt many of you will have accessed the various Federal, State, and Local Government assistance packages, should you qualify. Federally the page to start with is www.australia.gov.au, statewise (NSW) is www.nsw.gov.au/covid-19/businesses-and-employment and locally naturally depends on your area. As an example, Newcastle City has responded with this bag of goodies….. Check out your local Council’s site, it can’t hurt.
NSW is also providing a number of fee-free short courses to assist with practical skills over a range of industries. Further info at:- www.tafensw.edu.au/fee-free-short-courses
I am sure many of you are weighing up options of the best way forward as we negotiate out of this, particularly with social distancing, hand washing and hygiene procedures expected to remain in place for the forseeable future.
With International border restrictions to be the last lifted, how reliant are you on international visitors, particularly if you are in tourism?
Elderly are the most vulnerable, how will your business make them safer?
Finally, all employees with even a sniffle are expected to stay at home. No more toughening up and working through it anymore. Can they work from home? Will you need more casual staff if they can’t?
While the above are problems, they can present huge opportunities if you lead your industry with solutions.
As you have seen through this, some food businesses have shown amazing ingenuity to reinvent their businesses and find a way to make a buck. Some have excelled while you will have noticed some are wilting (or have wilted) on the vine.
The way and speed that you react and implement will likely play a huge part in your future success!
In this difficult time, please feel free to contact for an obligation free chat. If we can do future business great, but if just having an ear to bounce things off helps, I’m happy.
Take care
Shane