Related to the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic.
With the 2020 flu season not far away, Federal Nationals Regional Health Minister Mark Coulton is encouraging people to book in for a vaccination against seasonal influenza during April – particularly those in vulnerable groups or age brackets. The vaccination, which can be arranged by a GP, pharmacist or aged care provider, is recommended by…
Mid-north coast Nationals MPs have appealed to the public to respect and be kind to our frontline health workers. Federal Nationals Member for Cowper Pat Conaghan said health workers were a lifeline for the community during the current coronavirus pandemic and their actions deserve our thanks, not abuse. “I want to thank all of our…
The Federal Nationals in Government are making temporary changes to visa arrangements to help farmers access the workforce they need to secure Australia’s food and produce supply during COVID-19. The changes allow those within the Pacific Labour Scheme, Seasonal Worker Program and working holiday makers to continue to work in agriculture and food processing until…
A suite of 21 fee-free TAFE NSW short courses are available online to assist anyone across the State who wants to upskill during the COVID-19 pandemic. NSW Nationals Member for Myall Lakes Stephen Bromhead said the pandemic response has had a dramatic effect on communities and working life, but these select courses will assist job…
This is without a doubt one of the strangest times any of us has ever lived in. I know many of you are wondering what the future will hold, but I also know that we will get through this pandemic together. As Nationals we’re used to working hard under a lot of pressure – whether…
Junee Licorice and Chocolate Factory is among the many regional businesses answering the call to produce supplies during the COVID-19 pandemic. The family-owned business has repurposed its distillery at Corowa to make hospital grade hand sanitiser that meets World Health Organisation standards. NSW Nationals Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke congratulated them for their ingenuity and…
A new $110 million initiative will back Australia’s agricultural and fisheries sector by helping them export their high-quality produce into key overseas markets, with return flights bringing back vital medical supplies, medicines and equipment. In addition, around $10 million in Australian Fisheries Management Authority (AFMA) levies will also be waived for all Commonwealth fishers, ensuring…
Regional seniors will benefit from reinforced and prioritised support for Meals on Wheels and similar services as people adhere to COVID-19 restrictions and stay at home. Deputy Prime Minister and Nationals Leader Michael McCormack said this $59.3 million measure was an important step to ensure some of our most vulnerable residents received the support they…
The Federal Government will provide an unprecedented wage subsidy to around six million workers, including many throughout regional Australia, says Nationals Leader Michael McCormack. The Deputy Prime Minister and Riverina MP said the $130 billion JobKeeper payment would shield many regional Australians from losing their jobs. “This historic announcement goes to the heart of what…
The NSW Nationals in Government are asking people to put off non-essential travel between regional NSW towns and remote communities, telling them Easter holiday plans should be indefinitely postponed in line with the nationwide effort to slow the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic. Deputy Premier and NSW Nationals Leader John Barilaro said he was worried…