McCurdy calls for urgent small business support in Porepunkah and Bright

The Nationals' Member for Ovens Valley, Tim McCurdy, has called on the Allan Labor Government to urgently deliver targeted support to small businesses and workers in Porepunkah and Bright as the economic strain on the community deepens.

Mr McCurdy today met with Minister for Small Business, Natalie Suleyman, in Parliament to further discuss the unfolding crisis.

“I want to thank the Minister for taking the time to meet with me and for her genuine understanding of the challenges our communities are facing,” Mr McCurdy said. “The Minister has been very open to listening and is working on ways to provide assistance and that support can’t come soon enough.”

Local business owners are grappling with mounting pressures including quarterly BAS statements, mortgage repayments and full-time staff wages. At the same time, casual workers are uncertain about how they will cover rent or put food on the table.

“Every day without certainty is another day of real stress for families and local operators,” Mr McCurdy said. “Unlike a flood, where recovery can begin as soon as the waters recede, this crisis has no clear end in sight.”

Mr McCurdy said the government has a duty to step in when official advice keeps visitors away from communities.

“When a town is effectively closed off through no fault of its own, government support is not just important; it is essential,” he said. “I’ll continue working constructively with the Minister to make sure practical support is delivered quickly to those who need it most.”