The EMA says the Government’s further extension to the Wage Subsidy Scheme is good news for Auckland businesses who are
unable to operate at all or are operating at reduced capacity at Alert Level 3.
Chief Executive Brett O’Riley says the scheme, as well as the simplified COVID-19 Leave Support Scheme and extension to
the Mortgage Deferral Scheme to March next year, will all help.
"More of our Auckland business members have been able to remain open this time around because they have put processes in
place to meet Alert Level 3 conditions, but some simply cannot," he says.
"The 14-day assessment period for this Wage Subsidy Scheme responds to concerns the EMA expressed on behalf of many
businesses throughout our membership area about the impact of Auckland being at Alert Level 3, and not being able to
qualify because of the 40 per cent and 30-day rules."
The EMA and the BusinessNZ network continues to talk to the Government about other matters requiring assistance, for
example property rental costs, which represent a substantial cost to businesses in service industries.
"We’re also still concerned about anomalies in the way the borders around Auckland are being managed and have been
working closely with Government agencies in the last 24-hours to ensure businesses are getting consistent messaging and
are being treated consistently by police manning checkpoints," says Mr O’Riley.
For more on these latest announcements register for the EMA’s free live webinar with Brett O’Riley, Employment Relations and Safety Manager Paul Jarvie, and Head of
Legal Matthew Dearing at 11am tomorrow, Tuesday August 18.
For more information please see the EMA’s dedicated site covid19.ema.co.nz, call AdviceLine on 0800 300 362, or the Business Helpline on 0800 500 362.