While some Illawarra businesses are considering how they will manage conflict that might arise with customers as a result of the new COVID rules, others are holding off on reopening until restrictions ease further.
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Destination Wollongong will host a free virtual conflict resolution workshop for businesses at 10am Friday, to give them the tools to manage potential clashes with customers when the new public health order comes into force on Monday.
Non-critical retail, service and hospitality venues can reopen from next week - but will be allowed to let in only fully vaccinated (or medically exempt) customers.
"I think one of the concerns at the moment among small business owners is how next week is going to play out," Destination Wollongong general manager Mark Sleigh said, especially for those in industries that are not usually exposed to such conflict.
Mr Sleigh said the workshop, delivered by company ProActive Resolutions, would teach participants such skills as de-escalating situations and the right language to use.
Police and lawyers will also be on hand to provide information.
"At the end of the day, these people are only following the health order and doing their jobs," he said.
Anyone wishing to join the workshop can email Mr Sleigh at msleigh@visitwollongong.com.au.
However, some businesses are choosing to keep their shops closed.
Among them is Wollongong art supplies and framing shop Levers, which has sent out a notice to customers describing the orders prohibiting unvaccinated customers as "discriminatory".
The business has told customers it will continue operating a collect service at its shop until December 1, when unvaccinated people will be permitted to enter stores again under the government's reopening roadmap.
Rashays restaurant chain co-founder Rami Ykmour said his stores would also not open for dine in until December 1.
Mr Ykmour said his business was "inclusive" and he did not want his staff facing any arguments with customers.
"As the lockdown winds down, many local businesses continue to face tough decisions about how to reopen, how to manage their staff and best serve their customers and clients," Business Illawarra executive director Adam Zarth said.
"We understand that some may choose to wait until there is greatly clarity, or until they can welcome everyone back to their premises."
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