“Today I wrote to the federal treasurer highlighting the need for a JobKeeper type payment to assist the Norfolk Island community who are carrying the economic burden of economic lockdowns on the mainland.
“The recent lockdown restrictions imposed on parts of the mainland, especially greater Sydney and regional New South Wales have had a significant impact on the Norfolk Island economy”, Mr Smith said.
“My principal concern is centred on the federal government’s hotspot declarations and associated disaster payment policy. Nowhere in that policy does it take into consideration the complexities associated with, for example, the relationship between the economies on the mainland and Norfolk Island.
“Let’s not forget that JobKeeper protected people’s jobs and livelihoods”, Mr Smith said.
“I would urge the government to review its current level of economic support, toward a focus on supporting those beyond so called hotspot areas, and in a manner that supports their jobs and their ties to their local community.” Mr Smith said.
