Councils have been urged to consider easing up on rates demands and other measures to help Tasmania weather the economic damage from coronavirus.
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The call came from Tasmanian Chamber of Commerce and Industry chief operating officer Colleen Reardon, who said local government had "a vital role to play in supporting businesses through what will be a very challenging time ahead".
"Most importantly, local governments should ensure they continue to pay local suppliers on time, or potentially even ahead of the due date, to help businesses with their cashflow.
"We would also encourage local government to investigate if rates notices could be broken down into smaller instalments or if the due dates could be extended by up to three months."
Ms Reardon was particularly referring to rates notices issued to businesses, but the peak business body was also open to the ideas being applied to residential rates bills.
"These are practical suggestions that won't cost councils in the long term, but may assist businesses in the short term," Ms Reardon said.
"The other step local councils can take is to ensure public areas are regularly cleaned and sanitised."
Devonport Mayor Annette Rockliff said the council always sought to pay its suppliers on time.
"Council also holds regular discussions with the Devonport Chamber of Commerce and Industry and will continue to investigate ways council can support local businesses - and our local community more broadly - during this time," Cr Rockliff said.
Comment was being sought from councils' state peak body, the Local Government Association of Tasmania.
The federal government on Thursday unveiled a $17.6 billion stimulus package aimed at protecting jobs and helping the economy.
The state government is preparing a stimulus program.
"Tasmania will not be immune to the challenges of coronavirus and we are committed to working with business and industry to ensure we minimise the impact on our economy and protect jobs, which is why our response will be measured and directed at those sectors most impacted in the economy," Premier Peter Gutwein said on Thursday.