ACT PATHWAY FORWARD
The Government has released details on the staggered pathway out of lockdown with restrictions being relaxed on 15 and 29 October. More information can be found here.
The Government have also updated the COVID-19 Construction Requirements Document. Key changes can be found here and will come into effect 12.01 am this Friday 1 October.
These include for outdoor works at an occupied residence, the works can be undertaken provided that:
- There is no contact between the workers and occupants
- There are no more than 5 workers plus one supervisor on the site at any point in time.
We have asked Major Projects Canberra whether architects can work from their offices receiving the following response, “architects can work from the office as necessary to support permitted construction projects”.
This change is detailed here: ‘Manufacturing, fabrication, testing, assembly, professional regulatory, off-site administrative and equipment supply activities necessary to facilitate permitted construction activities can be undertaken.
Small Business
Updated requirements for small business are here. Please note that small business must have a COVID Safe Plan. This must remain on site and be available for inspection by an authorised officer.
Resources for Business
There are a range of business resources including posters and factsheets here
Business Support Grants Update
More than $77 million has been approved to 4,700 businesses as part of the COVID-19 Business Support Grants program. ACT Government has advised that if you made an application in August and have not heard via email or phone call then please email business.mailbox@act.gov.au with your application number and they will follow up on your application as a priority.
Mental Health Support for Business Owners
The Canberra Business Enterprise Centre is offering a free Mental Health Support webinar this Thursday 30 September at 10am. You will hear from CEO of MIEACT and 2020 Telstra Business Woman of the Year, Heidi Prowse. Throughout the current lock down, Heidi has been leading a campaign called Self Care Canberra, designed to address the immediate mental health concerns of workplaces, and equip business owners and staff with the tools and strategies to manage the increasing stressors of the current environment and build mentally healthy communities into the future. Register here.