The state’s peak business organisation Business NSW says that while businesses have shown resilience and optimism in the face of COVID-19, this confidence can be quickly eroded by lockdowns and border closures.
“In our December Business Conditions Survey, NSW businesses said they were turning the corner following the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Business NSW Regional Manager – Western NSW, Vicki Seccombe.
“Business confidence was positive across the state for the first time since June 2018, however much of the survey was completed prior to the Christmas lockdowns.”
“TheNSWGovernmenthasdoneagood job in listening to business needs and responding as soon as possible by easing restrictions and opening up communities.
“The first quarter of this year will be crucial for many businesses as a number of Government support packages are reduced or come to an end.
“The other clear signal from our survey is that an increasing number of Western NSW businesses are looking to expand their capacity to meet demand, with more businesses prioritising expansion than planning to downsize their business.
Vicki said businesses across Western NSW faced hiring challenges and skills shortages, with agriculture, construction, manufacturing and accommodation and food services expressing the most concern.