Mr PALLAS (Werribee—Treasurer, Minister for Economic Development, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for the Coordination of Treasury and Finance: COVID-19) (12:15): This government recognises the extremely difficult situation that many Victorian businesses, workers, households and communities find themselves in, but we are also providing the support that they need to make it through this pandemic. We know that the road map is about charting a way through this event, a steady and sustainable path out of this crisis and into what will become a COVID-normal situation. The road map is not just based on the best health information and advice but is also supported by our best economic advice. The only path to safe and sustainable economic recovery is to control the virus.

This government is ensuring businesses make it to COVID normal and can thrive on the other side. That is why on Sunday I had the great pleasure to be with the Premier to release the biggest ever package of business support in this state’s history: $3 billion in cash grants, relief and of course cash flow support directly to Victorian businesses when they need it most. On top of this we delivered support for the hospitality sector to activate outdoor spaces and assistance for the hardest hit sole traders.

Now, this package brings the total level of assistance that the state has given to business to $6 billion. That also is as part of $12.5 billion that the government has given to economic, business, community and of course pandemic response support. More than 110 000 businesses have already received business support grants. Seventy-five thousand businesses have received grants of up to $20 000 under our latest round of support. This is support that helps Victorian businesses and households, keeping businesses afloat and Victorians in work. We are making the necessary investment, focusing on supporting Victorians so they can get to a COVID normal.