What Victoria’s new COVID-19 restrictions mean for the boat industry

The latest declaration plunging the whole of Victoria into a declared state of disaster has effectively banned boating in metropolitan Melbourne.

As Melbourne-based dealers face another six weeks of uncertainty, those in other states and territories slowly empty as a coronavirus-inspired sales boom reportedly lifts sales to levels not seen since the 2008-09 global financial crisis.

Meanwhile, regional boat dealerships move to stage three restrictions that largely attempt to isolate people without forcing the economy into a crippling shutdown. Under these restrictions, boating remains an acceptable recreational activity if measures such as social distancing and wearing a face mask are used.

Australia has clearly become a two-speed economy when it comes to boats: Victoria and the rest of Australia.

The Boating Industry Association of Victoria has already made contact with newly appointed Victorian Fishing and Boating Minister Melissa Horne, and Better Boating Victoria seeking clarity over what some of the new coronavirus control measures will mean.

BIAV chief executive Steve Walker said the industry lobby would seek more clarity on whether boating activities that could be done alone or within the hour time limit, were still acceptable under the six-week stage four lockdown.

“BIAV understands the need for restrictions and a sensible approach to tackling the crisis,” Walker said.

“However [the BIAV] notes that at the first possible opportunity boating and fishing restrictions should be reviewed.”

Grounds for review include that boating is naturally isolating and safe, it is physical exercise and promotes mental wellbeing, and the fact that boating bans in the last lockdown had an “immediate and devastating” impact on the industry.

The BIAV is also seeking clarity as to whether like markets and shopping centres, boat dealerships will still be able to open their doors during the six-week state of disaster.

Also of concern is Victoria’s thriving boat-building industry, which continues to benefit from strong sales in other states and territories as yet untouched by the full impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Just last week Whittley Boats, a manufacturer based in Melbourne’s north, announced it would soon be opening a Sydney showroom in response to growing demand for its products. Earlier this year it also opened its first factory-backed Queensland showroom.

“We are awaiting the [Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews] announcements later today with regard to business and manufacturing,” Walker said.

“BIAV would be of the view that the manufacturers in the boating industry have been operating in a COVID-complaint manner and that this would continue in stage three for regional Victoria and stage four for Melbourne.”

Of more pressing need to greater Melbourne dealerships, the BIAV will look at what forms of government-backed stimulus and support will be given to the boating industry.
“BIAV will continue to monitor this and share all opportunities with members,” Walker said.

“BIAV will do all it can to make government aware of what impact these restrictions will have on the industry, and jobs, as was the dire case during the April-June lockdown.”