Supporting your local economy is always important.
In times of pandemic and disruption, like right now, there’s no better time to stand up for your country. From the coronavirus pandemic to the bushfire crisis, small businesses across Australia have had a challenging start to the year.
As more people stay indoors to keep themselves safe, many small businesses face the risk of losing their income altogether.
If you still have a regular source of income, now is the time to direct your spending toward local businesses. While the government is doing what it can to help, there are limits to the support available.
Ways to Do Your Part
The good news is that even if you don’t want to go out right now, there are still plenty of ways to support local businesses, including:
- Buy gift cards: Gift cards are an excellent way to put cash directly into the hands of local businesses. You don’t need to use them immediately and can save them for later. They also make thoughtful alternatives to traditional gifts for people who are staying at home.
- Honour current commitments: If you’re taking regular lessons, such as music or language classes, cancelling suddenly can have a serious impact on small business owners. If possible, continue your payments and ask whether lessons can be delivered via video conferencing instead.
- Buy local produce: While supermarket shelves may be empty, local grocers and farmers often still have plenty to offer. If visiting in person isn’t an option, consider delivery services and tipping drivers for their extra effort.
Shopping Online Works Too
If you’re not comfortable visiting local stores in person, online shopping is still a powerful way to support your local economy. Many Australian businesses operate online stores and are happy to ship products directly to your door. You can also find local sellers through social media platforms.
Remember to support local artists as well. With public gatherings cancelled and live performances postponed, many creatives have lost key sources of income. Merchandise sales are vital, so consider purchasing CDs, apparel, or artwork instead of relying solely on streaming platforms.
Platforms like Etsy and Bandcamp offer excellent opportunities to support independent artists and creators.
You can also plan for future purchases now. For example, investing in a new cooktop for your kitchen and arranging installation once restrictions ease is a great way to support local businesses. There’s no better way to celebrate the end of social isolation than with a home-cooked meal on a brand-new cooking surface.
