Ms THEOPHANOUS (Northcote): My adjournment matter is for the Minister for Industry Support and Recovery, and the action that I am seeking is that the minister update the house on the number of businesses that have been supported by the government’s support packages.

Minister, like every member in this chamber my community is doing it tough as we take the social distancing measures required to have this virus under control and to be able to return our economy to health.

I’ve been in contact with thousands of the local businesses in my community, through phone calls, emails and traditional mail—and I’ve been really humbled by the work being done by so many to pivot and adjust to the circumstances, and for others just getting to a position of keeping the lights on through all of this will be an extraordinary achievement.

The Victorian government support has been vital for many businesses—and a survival lifeline. And I know from previous discussions with you that government always wants to do more—and I appreciate the constructive approach that your office always takes on working through the issues that I have raised with you.

The government’s roadmap to recovery will be vital to giving our community a way forward as we work towards re-opening the economy and getting more Victorians back to work.

The consultation that has been and is continuing to be undertaken is how we get this right.

I want to take this opportunity to assure my community and all of those who have contacted me that I have put forward your concerns and your views—and I want to thank you for taking that time and for the vast majority putting forward constructive suggestions.

I know that there are many businesses that have contacted me in regard to COVID-safe plans. Many businesses are looking for a way forward to safely return to supporting their clients, whether these are gyms, cinemas, theatres, cafes or hospitality venues who are desperate to serve people in person and be part of a COVID-safe return to trading.

My focus is on measures that allow my community to get back to work and to harness the dignity that brings—and Minister, I know that you share in these values.