JobKeeper extension vital for fitness industry survival

A FITNESS Australia report has found more than 60 percent of businesses would last less than a month without financial support.

INDUSTRY body Fitness Australia recently released an Impact of Extending the JobKeeper Payment for the Fitness Industry Report highlighting the critical role JobKeeper has played in supporting an industry that’s designed to support Australians.

Worryingly, without JobKeeper the report found more than 60 percent of businesses, sole traders and individuals reported they would remain viable for less than a month; and 86.8 percent for less than three months.

The survey of more than 1,700 respondents represents more than 27 percent of the industry and included both businesses (including clubs, gyms and studios), and individuals (including sole traders, personal trainers and group fitness instructors) for a fair representation.

Fitness Australia CEO Barrie Elvish said the report laid bare the the impact of COVID-19, and the salvation provided by JobKeeper for businesses and exercise professionals.

“As a result of COVID-19, the sector has already faced, and will continue to face, unprecedented challenges. The introduction of JobKeeper has allowed many in the industry to stay employed, while ensuring continued access to important services for the broader community,” Mr Elvish said.

“Australia’s fitness industry plays a critical role for the Australian economy as a source of jobs, investment, spend and innovation. It also positively impacts individual’s physical and mental health, consequently supporting greater productivity and happiness across the nation.”

The Impact of Extending the JobKeeper Payment for the Fitness Industry Report found:

Gyms, clubs and studios

• · 93.4% of are relying on JobKeeper to stay afloat and keep people employed through this unprecedented time
• · 95.9% of have seen more than 20% decrease in revenue as a result of COVID-19
• · 72.9% of all those surveyed reported more than 40% decrease in revenue
• · 76.6% have lost more than 30% of their members.

Sole traders, personal trainers and fitness professionals

• · 82.5% are relying on JobKeeper to stay afloat and keep people employed through this unprecedented time
• · 90.5% of respondents have seen more than 20% decrease in revenue as a result of COVID-19
• · 78.1% of all those surveyed reported more than 40% decrease in revenue
• · 89.49% have lost more than 30% of their clients
• · 71.39% have lost more than 50% of their clients.

Mr Elvish said a continuation of JobKeeper will support a stronger Australia, fiscally, mentally and physically.

“Supporting Australia’s fitness industry by extending JobKeeper will ensure the sector can continue to be a key employer to support thousands of Australians with jobs; while supporting the broader population with improved physical and mental health outcomes,” Mr Elvish said.

www.fitness.com.au