In the past 10 weeks, this column has explored the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on the Orana region.
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After suffering through years of drought and bushfires affecting some areas, the pandemic added another layer of pressure to businesses that were already struggling to remain viable through crisis.
Our COVID-19 business survey assessed where respondents were situated and what they needed to continue operating and new pathways they could explore.
In the past few months, essential suppliers have been able to continue working, other traders were forced to close, while there were those who chose to trade differently, either operating behind the scenes, going online or offering takeaway or delivery options.
- PART 1: The hardest hit: An overview of job losses in the region
- PART 2: Recovery for those hit the hardest by coronavirus restrictions
- PART 3: Regional Impacts and what you have told RDA Orana
- PART 4: Gaps analysis around COVID-19 response
- PART 5: Agricultural consistency shows the region's tangibility and resilience
- PART 6: Mining sector buffers impact of COVID-19
- PART 7: Construction sector booming across western region
- PART 8: Innovation, ingenuity are leading the way
- PART 9: More jobs as region starts to bounce back
Innovation, collaboration and ingenuity have led the way in terms of making the most of the current situation and planning for the future.
In terms of recovery, industries such as agriculture, mining and construction have been able to keep operating using social distancing, good hygiene measures and COVID-19 safe planning to meet government regulations. The ongoing function of these industries continuing to function is a good sign for the Orana region. It will maintain employment, boost the economy and encourage investors. The strength of these sectors will hopefully aid the recovery of industries most affected by the extended shutdown with retail, hospitality and tourism hit hard by the effects of the pandemic. While supermarket chains, agricultural and hardware companies and medical and health services worked through uncertainty, beauty salons, food outlets, pubs and clubs, gymnasiums and entertainment venues have needed to work outside the square, changing the way they think in order to remain operational.
In times like these, reinvention, support and inspiration have gone a long way.
There may have been a lot of change and uncertainty but there's also been room for innovation in the business world. For anyone who's innovating, the time is right for leveraging opportunity, accessing skill and expertise and planning a roadmap for the future. RDA Orana's Business Recovery and Re-Opening Survey examines how businesses are coping in terms of employment, financial assistance and services offered.
The survey feedback and data captured will help our position in the future. The more information we receive from the business community, the more we can influence the agenda for all levels of government moving forward and delivering effective recovery campaigns.
To find out more about RDA Orana's services, call our office on 6885 1488 or visit www.rdaorana.org.au
RDA Orana is a not for profit business that receives federal funding to support regional and economic development initiatives across the Orana region. Our mission is to support sustainable economic growth through the provision of regional intelligence that creates connections and collaborations, supports investment decisions by business and government, and that encourages the development of our workforce. To find out more visit rdaorana.org.au
Regional Recovery with RDA Orana is a series of columns produced by RDA Orana looking at the impacts of COVID-19 and the road to recovery for our community.
Do you have something to say? We welcome your letters which may run in print and online.