The latest state budget included much-needed stimulus for the financially hit CBD.

Inner Sydney holds the economic weight of the nation on its shoulders but the emptying out of workers and visitors in the CBD has caused unprecedented downturn. The latest outbreak is adding even further setbacks for this already ailing economy. I welcome the $100 vouchers for food and entertainment in the 2000 postcode on Fridays. The vouchers are expected to be available by summer. Not all businesses will benefit and I recently asked the government again to ensure small businesses impacted by COVID can get out of leases without penalties.

Despite the government’s celebration of better than expected revenue from the massive stamp duty windfall due to skyrocketing property prices, the budget ignored the looming housing affordability emergency. Programs to house rough sleepers were expanded but this deals with the crisis end and nothing is being done to permanently house people on the growing social housing waiting list. The list includes people living in unstable housing and people at risk of homelessness.

Together with my independent colleagues, I met with the Treasurer to ask for an investment in more housing stock, which we know will create construction jobs and significant economic stimulus, while addressing the cause of homelessness.