Government rejects business call for help to cope with lockdown costs

Restaurant and Catering Queensland chief executive Wes Lambert said the lockdown was a “heartbreaking and crushing” blow to the hospitality sector across south-east Queensland.

“With school holidays and Easter just days away, the recently announced lockdown could be the final blow for many businesses who have spent more than 12 months struggling to survive,” he said.

Mr Lambert said this lockdown was different to previous ones, as there was now no JobKeeper safety net for businesses, with little to no support until after the lockdown was over.

“This means more staff stood down, up to $50 million in lost revenue, and nearly $15 million in produce and stock thrown away, with more debt piling up,” he said.

Ms Rohan said the…