Changes to COVID-19 measures announced out of National Cabinet will come too late for many across the country.

A national definition of casual and close contacts will soon be brought about and quarantine requirements likely adjusted.

But the new rules won’t arrive in time to save a massive loss of profit for businesses like Sum Yung Guys in Noosaville, Queensland.

One staff member tested positive to the virus after working a shift at the weekend, meaning the 24 others she was rostered on with are now close contacts.

They’ll have to isolate for seven days and return a negative test before they can return to work.

The requirements have wiped out more than half the staff and has the forced owners to make the tough decision to close up ahead of Christmas.

Co-owner Moe Rickard told Chris O’Keefe more than 300 customers were expected to walk through the doors until mid-January.

“It’s our livelihood,” he said, choking up. “We’ve got 40 staff that rely on us to open our doors, pay them each week, pay them properly.”

Mr Rickard said rapid antigen tests are needed for businesses to be able to function.

“We need to be able to go to and get a test in the morning, test negative and go and get back to work.”

“It’s here, it’s everywhere. It’s not going away. No one can say it’s going away.”

Press PLAY below to hear Moe Rickard’s emotional interview 

Image: Sum Yung Guys / Facebook