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Canberra Today 27°/29° | Tuesday, March 19, 2024 | Digital Edition | Crossword & Sudoku

Coe calls for immediate rate relief for businesses

OPPOSITION Leader Alistair Coe is calling for an immediate suspension of commercial rates for local businesses, to help save the jobs and livelihoods of tens of thousands of Canberrans. 

“Canberrans are losing their livelihoods as local businesses can no longer afford to employ staff and pay their bills,” Mr Coe says.

“The coronavirus isn’t just a threat to the health of so many Canberrans, it is already dramatically affecting our way of life in ways most of us thought were unimaginable.

“The ACT government needs to do absolutely everything it can to save jobs which so many Canberra families depend on.

“The government cannot continue charging suffering small and family businesses hundreds of thousands of dollars in commercial rates when families are struggling to put food on the table. Some businesses face millions of dollars in government charges.”

Mr Coe says the ACT government must immediately suspend commercial rates, especially for businesses that have ceased trading.

“This measure would help to keep tens of thousands of Canberrans in work and many businesses to keep their doors open,” he says. 

“These are extraordinarily difficult times and local businesses are doing everything they can to show kindness and compassion to their staff and tenants.” 

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Thank you,

Ian Meikle, editor

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