Launceston photographer Mel de Ruyter said she felt reassured when the federal government announced its wage subsidy this week.
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"At first I wasn't sure if I was eligible, but after I looked into it I felt mostly really relieved," she said. "It meant one less thing to worry about."
Her work includes photographing weddings, which have mostly been cancelled; photographing events, which are now illegal; and taking photos for small businesses - very few of which have marketing budgets while in lockdown.
She said she will be able to use this period to learn new skills, throw herself into other creative interests, and work on her business, instead of worrying about money and her future viability.
"There's a few online courses I want to do or that I've started and haven't had the time to finish up," she said.
"I'm really interested in drawing, and then I'll also have the time to take a look at my business and see what needs to be worked on there."
The Jobkeeper wage subsidy is for businesses with under $1 billion yearly turnover who have lost at least 30 per cent of revenue due to the coronavirus.
It provides a flat rate of $1500 before tax per fortnight for workers, either who are still actively working or who have been temporarily stood down, which is passed on by their employer.
In the case of Ms de Ruyter and other sole traders, she is considered both employer and employee under the system.
Media Entertainment and Arts Alliance chief executive Paul Murphy said the government had listened to the advocacy of unions and workers groups in implementing the subsidy.
"While more detail is required about how the income subsidy will operate, MEAA does welcome that the government has listened to concerns and ensured that sole traders/freelancers are not left on the outer," he said.