Ross McEwan noted this week that the country is less than 70 days away from having 70 per cent of over 16s being fully vaccinated and less than 90 days away from 80 per cent of Australians being fully vaccinated.
“It is a good plan, which lays out that these levels will be critical to having more freedoms and getting the economy open again,” Mr McEwan said.
“There are many businesses, particularly small businesses, whose doors are closed and they are really struggling in lockdown.
“They need certainty to get going again, to invest, grow and create jobs. Our research shows seven out of 10 small businesses have ambitions to do exactly that.”
The bank also released results of a survey it conducted with more than 550 Australian businesses to identify key concerns from owners this week, which found that almost three in 10 small businesses said greater certainty on COVID restrictions would encourage them to invest.
One in five firms also said better vaccination rates would also help their businesses.
“The clear message I want to give is one of hope,” Mr McEwan said.
“If we all keep putting our arms out and getting our first and second jabs, we’ll get out of this. We will have more freedom and our lives will be better.”
