Retailers are calling for immediate government support for flood-affected businesses and families in Lismore, saying these communities have been hit with a ‘double whammy’ of flooding disasters.
National Retail Association Chief Executive Dominique Lamb said the consecutive deluges of the past few months coupled with the 2017 floods have pushed businesses and residents to breaking point.
“The regions is doing it tough with many still recovering from the March floods. In Lismore, there are instances of people who haven’t been able to access hot water since February.
“It’s hard to fathom that this is happening in Australia. Kids have lost all of their clothes and belongings and yet the rest of the country is moving on and forgetting about the businesses, communities and families still struggling.
“We certainly welcome any and all support, but this support must continue months into the future to ensure no community is left behind.”
Ms Lamb said the flood crisis needs targeted funding for businesses and local councils to assist in the immediate ongoing recovery as well as for the long-term financial and mental health impacts.
“We need immediate intervention. These floods are further inducing anxiety levels in a very fatigued, small business community who are not sure of what tomorrow will bring.
“We have seen family businesses like that of McConaughey Properties doing their bit by facilitating the reopening Lismore Square, but this has come at a great cost.
“Where is the government support?”
Source: NRA
