There’s debate about whether the Albanese government should bring back the $750 COVID-19 payment.

The issue will be discussed at an emergency meeting of National Cabinet on Monday.

Unions are pushing for a return to pandemic pay for sick workers and a unified approach to crack down on surging COVID cases.

Michael O’Brien from the Chamber of Commerce and Industry Queensland’s senior industrial relations specialist, told Neil Breen there are other, more pressing issues businesses are facing.

He says the overwhelming feedback was the labour shortages and the supporting employees through issues such as mental health concerns, and members are eager for the business environment to turn.

“So they can put their foot on the pedal,” he said.

Press PLAY below to hear what he is hearing from businesses

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