Lights, Camera, Inaction: Independent cinemas will be hard hit when JobKeeper ends

With JobKeeper ending on the 28th March 2021, many businesses and industries are bracing for further economic upheaval to their ability to survive; with local, independent cinemas expecting to be amongst the hardest hit.

“At a time when entertainment has provided millions of Australians with a much-needed distraction from the pandemic, it is shameful that Scott Morrison has chosen not to extend a lifeline to these much loved and appreciated operators.” said Dr Mike Freelander MP, Federal Member for Macarthur.

Independent Cinemas Australia has launched Independent Cinemas Week to draw attention to the 700 local screen operators who provide our communities with much needed entertainment.

Visiting local independent operator and community icon, Dumaresq Street Cinema, Dr Freelander spoke with owners Stuart Lane and Adam Moore regarding how Dumaresq Street Cinema has been hard hit during the pandemic and economic fallout.

“As a parent and grandparent, I know how valuable cinemas like Dumaresq Street have been to my family and hundreds of other Macarthur households in creating memories and providing entertainment over many decades,” Dr. Freelander said.

With March approaching and the subsequent termination of JobKeeper on the horizon, many cinemas like Dumaresq Street now face the prospect of going under if they do not receive support.

Local cinemas provide employment opportunities for staff and generate further financial returns for restaurants and other businesses situated around their premises.

Dr Freelander feels that it is imperative that the Government do what it can to help Australian businesses and workers across all industries during this economically devasting time.

– Brian Laul