The Australian Sporting Goods Association (ASGA) supports the announcements made on Monday by the Federal Government regarding the $130 billion ‘JobKeeper’ wage subsidy scheme for major industries in light of the significant challenges posed by the coronavirus pandemic. This national assistance package – the third in as many weeks – seeks to keep Australian businesses, many of which within the sporting goods sector, afloat during these times of great uncertainty.
ASGA Executive Director, Shaun Bajada, said the current public health and economic crisis has taken an “unprecedented toll” on Australian Sporting Goods brands, including many ASGA members, diminishing both revenues and subsequent ability of businesses to pay and retain staff.
“These support measures are a positive step towards protecting Australian Sporting Goods businesses and the vital employment they provide to our country’s workforce, however, there is still more that can be done by the Government to minimise further damage to the industry and expedite the recovery process.” Mr Bajada added.
ASGA supports the additional measures proposed by the National Retailers Association (NRA) in their 10-Point Retail Recovery Plan also released on Monday. Of these recommendations, ASGA has identified the implementation of a robust rental relief scheme for businesses as the highest policy priority; following employee wage subsidies.
Mr Bajada stated that “brands, distributors and retailers need a specific and consistent approach to dealing with commercial property rental and getting clarity from the government on this issue is urgent.”
ASGA is looking to the Federal government to take these further actions immediately and is working closely with other industry associations to provide policy guidance and advocacy on behalf of the Australian Sporting Goods industry.
For more information regarding the ‘JobKeeper’ wage subsidy scheme, providing an allowance of up to $1500 per employee, and employee requirements for accessing it, register your interest at https://treasury.gov.au/coronavirus/jobkeeper.