Reflecting on the COVID-19 Pandemic

Fast forward three years, and this period has had a significant impact on the way clubs operate. Some clubs have managed to bounce back, while others are still grappling with challenges. The Government has now commenced the crucial task of reflecting on this time, to better prepare and respond to future pandemics (with our fingers crossed that there won’t be any). 

In September 2023, the Prime Minister announced an inquiry into the Commonwealth Government’s COVID-19 response. The review aims to examine the difficulties encountered during the COVID-19 pandemic and explore opportunities for better anticipating, adapting and responding to future pandemics. The terms of reference can be found here. 

ClubsNSW, through Clubs Australia, provided a submission to the COVID-19 Response Inquiry Panel which can be found here. Feedback was obtained from clubs across Australia. 

A summary of Clubs Australia’s recommendations can be found below:

• Partner with clubs on any future pandemic response to establish vaccination centres and testing clinics in clubs.
• Explore using clubs to serve as venues for basic medical care/treatment and vaccination storage facilities.
• Retain financial support to businesses during future pandemics and increase assistance to affected hospitality workers to maintain their regular rate of pay. 

The submission highlighted the club industry’s positive contributions during the pandemic, which included converting facilities into crucial vaccination hubs, providing incentives to promote vaccination, and offering food delivery services. 

Clubs like Cabra-Vale Diggers conducted daily check-in calls with members, while others sent care packages to employees and those in their local community. Broken Hill Musicians Club provided free transportation for Indigenous communities to and from their venue for vaccinations, while Bankstown Sports operated two vaccination centres.

Undoubtedly, this was a very difficult time for everyone, but the contributions of clubs made it easier. 

The Independent Panel is expected to deliver a Final Report to the Federal Government with recommendations to improve Australia’s preparedness for future pandemics by the end of September 2024. Clubs can keep updated here.