Martin Pakula asks federal government to ‘reconsider’ complete cut to business support

Victoria’s minister for Industry Support and COVID-19 Recovery has asked the federal government to reconsider its plan to completely shut off business support payments once states have hit a vaccination rate of 80 per cent.

Martin Pakula told Tom Elliott there shouldn’t be a blanket rule.

“If you’re a live music venue, for instance, one person per four square metres is a very, very difficult operating environment because they’re used to being packed full of people,” he explained.

“Even at 80 per cent, it’s probably not wise to have venues packed and heaving.

“There might still be some circumstances, some businesses, that need some support.

“There might not, but there might be some pockets where assistance is still required.”

Tom Elliott also asked Mr Pakula whether he supported the idea of mandatory vaccination for politicians to send a message, given that is being asked of construction workers, teachers and those in aged care.

He said it was not “unreasonable” to suggest MPs should set the example, but he’d leave it to the Chief Health Officer.

“Certainly everyone I know in the government is vaccinated,” he said.

Press PLAY below to hear Martin Pakula on 3AW