Liberal Nationals call for a return to density limits for regional hospitality

The Liberal Nationals are calling for density limits, not patron caps, to be immediately reinstated for the safe reopening of regional hospitality venues.

State Liberal Member for Eildon, Cindy McLeish said regional hospitality businesses are confused and frustrated at the Andrews Labor Government’s chaotic COVID response.

Ms McLeish said, “Regional small businesses were gutted after Daniel Andrews imposed unworkably low patron limits in the latest round of ‘eased’ regional restrictions.”

“Venues that are licenced to seat hundreds of diners are now limited to just 10 inside and 20 outside, regardless of their physical size.”

Yo-yoing in and out of lockdown is taking a harsh toll on regional businesses who are being run into the ground. These low number patron caps are just another slap in the face as many hospitality businesses will be forced to stay closed.

Daniel Andrews must deliver a plan that gives businesses and their staff certainty and allows them to plan for the future.

Ms McLeish continues, “This is the eighth set of rules for hospitality businesses. A plan must be developed and must include a return to density limits, coinciding with businesses pre-existing COVID Safe plans.”

“Regional hospitality businesses need to be given a fighting chance and support into a post-COVID future.”