The Shopping Centre Council of Australia has asked its members to ensure there are no lease terminations for non-payment of rent for small to medium sized businesses as it works through this "difficult period".

In a statement released on Thursday, SCCA Chairman Peter Allen encouraged the industry to work together in support of retailers who may be affected by COVID-19.

"It is vital that our industry, as a key part of the economy and our local communities, work collaboratively with government and our SME retailers to support their cashflow and jobs across the economy," he said.

"As we have stated consistently in our communications throughout the COVID-19 pandemic and this difficult period, we all have a role to play to help our retailers – especially our small to medium sized businesses – to get to the other side."

Shopping Centre Council of Australia Chairman Peter Allen. Source: Shopping Centre Council of Australia

Mr Allen added he had been left "disappointed and frustrated" by the alleged response of some owners to the crisis.

"We have been advised that governments have received direct feedback that some owners are not engaging with the empathy that is required during these times," he said.

"This is surprising, and if correct, very disappointing and frustrating to hear.

"We know that each of you are engaging directly with your retail partners and it is very important you continue to do so.

"We continue to work with the Federal Government on a suite of measures to provide additional support for small to medium-sized businesses." 

Earlier this week, the Council said it was "committed" to providing further support to retailers in the wake of the government's $66 billion stimulus package.

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