The importance of mental health in the current difficult times has been highlighted in the announcement of a significant state government program to help smaller businesses and individual traders.
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Never before has the community's combined mental health and wellbeing been so tested and for so long.
But importantly, we know we can get through this, and the way to do so is to work together throughout the toughest of times.
Funding announced by the Victorian government yesterday was pitched directly to small businesses doing it tough, including sole traders and small to medium sized firms who have battled gallantly throughout the pandemic.
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The circumstances that led to this terrible situation are not the small business community's to own, but we are all impacted in some way by what has transpired.
More importantly, we want to be part of the journey out of the pandemic and towards better times.
We know the road ahead is going to be difficult, and that recovery itself will take much longer.
The actual definition of what that recovery will look like, is yet to be determined.
As part of the $26 million program unveiled yesterday, the mental health needs of smaller firms and sole traders will be addressed at least partially by St John Ambulance via accredited mental health support training delivered to chambers of commerce across Victoria, which the government hopes will 'swiftly boost mental health capabilities within local business communities'.
We know many people in this important business sector have been finding things extremely difficult, weighed down by pressures upon their staff, their families and the businesses they are proud to own and operate.
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We know small business is a vital part of our economy, generating billions of dollars and countless jobs, as well as helping deliver the dreams and ambitions of thousands of Australians who dare to dream.
Never losing sight of those dreams has never been more important.
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