A message from the EO: COVID-19 Update
The RWTA was yesterday invited to participate in a teleconference to be chaired by the Hon. Cameron Dick, Minister for State Development, Manufacturing, Infrastructure and Planning.
The meeting sought industry input on the supply of essential goods – an opportunity to identify any issues with continuing supply of essential goods as the impacts of COVID-19 evolve and actions that would ease limitations and build certainty of supply.
I provided an update on key supply chain preparations and was given the opportunity to escalate critical supply issues for attention.
Topics covered included
the need for an uninterrupted supply of electricity
ensuring that the distribution and logistics process were facilitated as capacity is limited and perishable food is both safely stored and delivered to outlets providing for the community.
the reliability of internet and NBN for communications
the need for a ramping up of labour force on a casual basis over the next weeks and months
the assurance that the cold chain is given preference for sanitation and industrial cleaning in the instance that emergency arises
I requested that the State Disaster Management Groups and Local Governments are alerted to ensure that the cold chain is added to the priority listing for the uninterrupted supply of electricity to ensure that there is no disruption to the distribution process.
Good news was delivered yesterday that changes to existing laws tackling planning conditions that currently restrict the operating hours of loading docks and distribution centres supplying supermarkets will come into effect within days, allowing 24 hour operation when required. This will positively affect the current unprecedented demand for groceries such as non-perishable food, toilet paper and other essentials.
Today I have also been in conversation with the likes of the Director General of the Department of Natural Resources, Mines and Energy, James Purtill and Energy Queensland’s Executive General Manager of Community , Customer and Corporate Affairs, Michael Dart for their support and communication to ensure that all departments are aware of our essential service requirements. They have both assured me of their departments understanding and full support over the next weeks of unprecedented requirement.
I will be sure to update you all with any further outcomes as they arise.
Best Regards,
