As we face another week of the COVID-19 pandemic, I encourage you to stay up to date with the latest health advice and information HERE.  For details about available support – financial or otherwise – please call Service NSW on 13 77 88, 24 hours a day seven days a week.

My website has an up to date list of financial supports available to individuals, sole traders and small businesses: HERE

Recent action

While much is being done by all levels of government to support the community and economy, there are areas where further work is needed. I’ve written to the NSW Treasurer for urgent clarity on the protections for residential and commercial tenancies, and to the federal treasurer seeking support for overseas workers and students, many of whom have lost their job and have no way to get back home.

I’ve also been working with the government to get clear guidelines for apartment communities during COVID-19, including with short-term letting and special levies. I hope this will be forthcoming soon.

As more and more people work from home, some have reported impacts from construction noise. I’ve raised this with councils and with the planning minister and hope guidelines and mitigation measures will be put in place to balance construction and jobs with protecting residents from intrusive noise.

NSW Parliament will sit as needed during the pandemic crisis period. I’ve been focused on Sydney electorate needs during this time and am in regular personal contact with ministers and their staff to raise concerns and pass on suggestions for constituents and the inner city community.

Local support networks

A new Combatting Social Isolation for Seniors grants will help support older people, with applications closing 26 April. Please alert interested groups: HERE

Many people stuck at home during this crisis would like to help those in need. Please let me know about groups organising local support and I’ll post them on my website so others can link up. Send details of groups to [email protected].   

The Wayside Chapel is calling for donations HERE as is St Canice’s Kitchen HERE

Keep calm, keep washing your hands and stay home!