Samantha Robertson operates three businesses from her Benalla home.
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When she heard about COVID-19 support for sole traders she was understandably excited - until she found out she was not eligible to apply.
With Australia's economy being pushed to breaking point by the pandemic state and federal governments have been implementing policy to support businesses.
From JobKeeper to grants, and interest-free loan packages, there have been a variety of ways the two levels of government have looked to prop-up the economy until such a time that it can return to normality.
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Last week the Victorian Government announced a $100 million support package for sole traders to recover from COVID-19.
However, if you are a sole trader who does not operate from a commercial premises you are not eligible to apply.
“Four years ago I joined a franchise and opened up a travel agency in Benalla, which is a franchise working from home,” Ms Robertson said.
“We also opened up two holiday cottages at the base of Mount Buller, too, and we've had those for about two years.
“When the first lockdown happened those had to close temporarily, we still had to process cancellations and help customers, but there was no income.
“At that point we opened a baby gifts and accessories business called One little Robertson, so we at least something to fall back on.
“I've recently had a baby who is only eight month's old - it’s a little bit hard to go and get a full-time job.”
All of these businesses are run from the family home - and as such Ms Robertson is excluded from applying for any of the funding made available by the state government to support sole traders.
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“It’s devastating to think that they're only helping around 33,000 sole traders by offering that.
“It feel like the rug has been pulled out from beneath our feet. It's like we don’t matter.”
Since The Ensign spoke with Samantha the easing of restrictions does mean she and her partner will be able to open the cottages to visitors.
If you would like a getaway in regional Victoria and would like to support a local business you can find out more about those at this link.
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State Member for Euroa said the Andrew's Government needed to do more to support business owners in the same position as Ms Robertson.
She said without adequate support, more of Benalla's businesses could close.
“Sole traders on the verge of shutting their doors are getting the cold shoulder from the Andrews Labor Government,” Ms Ryan said.
“Many have had to shut down for months and will need lots of help to get back on their feet.
“Businesses suffering as a result of government restrictions must receive assistance to ensure their survival.
“The Andrews Government finally announced limited assistance for sole traders last week and we are still waiting on the detail. This is not good enough.
“Business owners deserve better.
“People like Samantha Robertson are entrepreneurial sole traders who should be supported through this tough time.
“These people are the backbone of our regional economies and communities.”
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Ms Ryan urged sole traders to get in touch with her electorate office to share their story if they found themselves in a similar position to Ms Robertson.
“The Nationals will keep standing up on behalf of our sole traders. By collecting your stories, we can take these to government to fight for change,” Ms Ryan said.
“Small businesses are at the heart of a strong local economy.”
Sole traders can phone Ms Ryan to share their story on 5762 1600, email steph.ryan@parliament.vic.gov.au, or at Vicn.at/messagetodan
State Minister for Business Precincts Martin Pakula was contacted for comment but did not respond.
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