Gold Coast employers 'concerned' over business viability

Gold Coast businesses have recently expressed concern and "low confidence" about what is to come for the state and national economies, despite making most out of from the state's border being reopened.

The data provided by the Chamber of Commerce and Industry Queensland (CCIQ) revealed it was reported that Gold Coast employers recorded a growth in revenue and sales as well as general business conditions during the quarter ending December, indicating that their profitability, sales as well as revenue were "all higher than what the national average is." However, data indicated that they paid the highest costs for labor, and operational expenses, employment costs, investment costs were similar to the other states.

Ariana Margetts, Southport Chamber of Commerce president 
 said "On the Gold Coast, we're among the least confident in the state in the outlook of the national economy especially, which could be contributed to ongoing business uncertainty," 

"There was a certain amount of confidence that at the time Queensland borders reopened, businesses in the Gold Coast would see some increase in sales, but we had a difficult time achieving the potential of the area to its fullest."

"COVID in the workplace, and continuous interruptions in the supply chain, as well as the labor market, have meant that numerous Gold Coast businesses aren't banking on confidence in the future to recoup their losses from the last two years," Margetts explained.

However, CCIQ policy and advocacy general manager Amanda Rohan said employers have been "calling on the state government repeatedly" to make specific reopening and recovery strategies, noting that "uncertainty could cost Queensland firms."

"We requested access to quick antigen testing to be readily and easily available to business as well as a joint state and federal direct-targeted support package for businesses most affected, and clarity regarding what the state's 90% vaccine achievement meant for business regulations and regulations," Rohan said.

"Businesses have told us that without these commitments, they'd be struggling to open again, keep their doors open and continue to be sustainable for the long haul. We're now seeing the effects on the business community, with many Queensland businesses becoming more worried about their viability in the future." Rohan added.