Business confidence in NSW fell in the first quarter of the year, with the end of JobKeeper having an impact.
The latest Business Conditions Survey from Business NSW conducted in March, found more businesses viewed the economy as getting weaker (39 per cent) than viewed it as getting stronger (29 per cent).
Business NSW chief executive Nola Watson said the data from both businesses in metropolitan and regional areas was concerning, but not totally unexpected . About one third of businesses who received JobKeeper believe they may have to close their business, either on a temporary or permanent basis, when the full benefits of the program cease, Ms Watson said on Thursday.
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More NSW residents can use the state government s hospitality voucher scheme, designed to boost the pandemic-hit hospitality industry.
From Monday an additional 700 businesses in Bega Valley, the northern beaches and Sydney CBD will take part in the second pilot of Dine & Discover NSW.
That means more than 125,000 NSW residents in those three areas are eligible for the vouchers, the bulk of those living in the northern beaches.
The scheme gives residents four $25 vouchers to be spent in local businesses and cultural venues.
From Monday an additional 700 businesses in Bega Valley, the northern beaches and Sydney CBD will take part in the second pilot of Dine & Discover NSW (pictured: diners at Opera Bar)
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For CBD cafe owner Marino Plagiotis, news of the latest COVID-19 outbreak signalled a sudden dip in business. Due to the outbreaks, there has been a roller coaster effect immediately when the news breaks, he said.
Marino Plagiotis, who runs the Hungry Bean Cafe in the CBD, says business during COVID-19 outbreaks has been a roller coaster ride.
Credit:Edwina Pickles
While business had steadily increased since the March lockdown, which turned the CBD into a ghost town, Mr Plagiotis said the recent outbreaks had sent business at the Hungry Bean Cafe in Clarence Street into a sudden nosedive.