Territorians urged to buy a takeaway as new $50m ‘survival fund’ launched
Northern Territory Chief Minister Michael Gunner has called on Territorians to help the embattled hospitality sector by ordering more takeaways during the coronavirus crisis.
The call for locals to double down on their takeaway orders comes after new federally imposed restrictions on cafes, restaurants and bars.
“If Territorians want to help, but you’re not sure how, order some takeaway,” Gunner said.
“I am serious – at least a meal a day from a local joint. If you’ve got the dough for it, being the best Territorian you can be right now does mean eating takeaway.”
The NT Government has also announced a $50 million Small Business Survival Fund, which will offer grants to small businesses to help them adapt to changing trading conditions, including helping hospitality businesses step up their delivery and pickup services.
“Covid-19 is doing more damage to our Territory economy than any natural disaster ever has,” Gunner said.
“I talk to business owners every day and I know how much you’re hurting. These new rules are going to hurt. They are going to hurt some people more.”
The fund will be overseen by an advisory board to be chaired by Dick Guit, former president of the Master Builders Association in the Northern Territory, and is expected to open for applications on Friday.
Sheridan Randall, 26th March 2020
