26 April 2022
The Australian Hotels Association (WA) has applauded today’s announcement that all remaining restrictions on WA hospitality venues will be removed from Friday.
AHA(WA) CEO Bradley Woods said the end to restrictions sends a strong signal that WA is nearing the end of the pandemic, after two of the most tumultuous and challenging years in a generation.
“It is no exaggeration to say this is the best news that WA’s hotels and hospitality venues have had in over two years,” Mr Woods said.
“Bars, hotels, pubs, taverns, restaurants and function centres across the state will be celebrating this afternoon, as will all Western Australians who have understandably grown tired of the restrictions associated with the pandemic.”
“Since March 2020, hospitality venues have navigated a multitude of ever-changing public health measures, which has placed great challenges on the industry and the staff who have been responsible for implementing them.”
“The McGowan Government should be commended for achieving the ‘soft landing’ we had hoped for, with a very low number of COVID-19 deaths and the quick removal of the remaining restrictions.”
“While hotels and hospitality venues will be raising a glass to today’s announcement, we mustn’t lose sight of the fact that the critical task of recovery remains ahead.”
“There is significant hesitancy in the community to return to work or visit hospitality venues, which is having a serious impact on the viability of many businesses, particularly in Perth’s CBD.”
“WA’s success in managing COVID-19 can largely be attributed to the close collaboration between industry and government, so we look forward to this level of cooperation continuing as venues seek to recover from the impact of the pandemic.”
“Specifically, we hope consideration is given to an incentive program similar to successful schemes in other jurisdictions, which has stimulated spending, reinvigorated hospitality venues and encouraged patrons to get out and about.”
Further information: David De Garis 0412 577 567
