The South Australian Business Chamber is urging government to take a whole-of-economy approach to the harmful algal bloom crisis. What began as an environmental issue is quickly becoming an economic one. Businesses are reporting lost revenue, cancelled bookings, reputational damage and deep uncertainty heading into the Spring and Summer peak season.
The Chamber has cautiously welcomed the support package announced this week by the State and Federal Governments, including $10,000 small business grants, mental health and financial counselling services, tourism marketing and beach clean-up funding. Criteria for access to assistance is yet to be determined and the Chamber is advocating to ensure all affected businesses are considered.
On Tuesday I was appointed to the Harmful Algal Bloom Reference Group – jointly chaired by Deputy Premier, the Hon Dr Susan Close MP and Minister for Primary Industries, the Hon Claire Scriven MP. My involvement will ensure the broader business community is considered as solutions are developed.
We will continue to monitor the impact on business including retailers, hospitality, regional supply chains and small business operators across affected coastal communities.
In the meantime, I encourage you to support local operators wherever possible. Many businesses in the fishing industry are not directly impacted by the bloom but by the perception that seafood is unsafe.
By choosing South Australian seafood, you’re not only backing our fishing industry, but also the many businesses that supply it, along with local shops, seafood retailers, pubs and restaurants that proudly offer our state’s produce. Every local booking, order or purchase helps businesses through this challenging period.
If seafood is for sale, it’s safe to eat.
Further information is available at sa.gov.au.
Let us know how the algal bloom is impacting your business.
