The region’s peak business organisation, Business Illawarra, has today welcomed confirmation that local businesses will be able to re-open on Monday, saying it will be a cause for celebration within the region’s business and broader community.
Following confirmation that NSW has reached the 70 percent double vaccination rate, NSW Premier Dominic Perrottet has re-assured businesses that they can open on Monday 11 October, for double-vaccinated customers.
“We have reached the milestone quicker than initially expected, thanks to the community across the Illawarra stepping up, and the great work of #vaxtheillawarra – and now as a result business can re-open,” said Business Illawarra Executive Director Adam Zarth.
“Premier Perrottet has also confirmed that when we reach the 80 percent milestone, masks won’t be required to be worn in office environments. That will streamline the return to work procedures of many businesses and will help bring vibrancy back to the Wollongong, Shellharbour and Nowra CBDs,” Mr Zarth said.
“We are calling Monday ‘back-to-business day’ because that’s what it is for hundreds of thousands of business owners and their employees across our state.”
“This is going to be a celebration of everything that’s great about business, done in a COVID Safe way.”
“We are encouraging people to use the hashtag #backtobusiness in their social media posts to share with us how they are going to celebrate on the day.”
“The support we have seen so far for our local businesses has been overwhelming, and we are calling on all members of the community to be respectful of business operators and staff when they are adhering to the Public Health Orders.”
“Business NSW’s statewide #backtobusiness campaign is about celebrating businesses of all shapes and sizes that have been decimated by the lockdowns – and showing the gratitude, strength and resilience of the community,” Mr Zarth said.