Many women will still have to wait weeks to return to work under the Andrews Labor Government’s ‘roadmap’ that tips the scales against industries and sectors that employ high numbers of women.
The Nationals Member for Eastern Victoria Region, Melina Bath said the Andrews Government’s claims that reopening childcare and schools will solve problems currently facing women in the workforce failed to see the whole picture.
“Labor’s restrictions, rules, support and stimulus have focused on supporting traditionally male-dominated industries, while on the flip side sectors that often employ high numbers of women, like beauty, hospitality and retail, have been crushed,” said Ms Bath.
“Forcing these industries to meet statewide criteria is unfair and widens gender disparity in the workplace.
“May 2020 Australian Bureau of Statistic show that during the pandemic employment loss for women in regional Victoria was at a staggering 78 per cent.
“During Stage 2 restrictions hospitality, personal care and retail were operating well under COVID safe protocols; with such low numbers in regional Victoria and businesses acutely aware of the risk any outbreak will have on their livelihood, they should be allowed to safely reopen earlier.
“If they are to be prevented from opening, Daniel Andrews must release the public health advice he’s used as evidence to this decision.”
Ms Bath said we need a state government that can competently manage the economy and support all women in the workforce, instead of blatantly ignoring some sectors.
“The Nationals and Liberals comprehensive economic recovery plan to get Victorians back to work and rebuild communities offers a progressive alternative rather than attacking individual livelihoods and industries,” said Ms Bath.
“The economic crisis resulting from Daniel Andrews botched hotel quarantine program is hurting Victorians, most concerning is the impact it is having on working women.
“Daniel Andrews must remove the shackles on working women in regional Victoria and give them a fighting chance.”
