Citta owner Rinaldo Di Stasio lets fly at governments for ‘shameful’ COVID-19 response.

A prominent Melbourne restaurateur has let fly at Australia’s governing bodies during the hospitality industry’s hour of need.

Rinaldo Di Stasio with his partner Mallory Wall at their restaurant Di Stasio Citta in Melbourne. Picture: Luis Enrique Ascui

A prominent Melbourne restaurateur has let fly at Australia’s governing bodies and the failure of “political agendas” for failing to support the hospitality industry at its time of need.

In an advertisement taken out in The Australian, the owner of esteemed St Kilda restaurant Citta Rinaldo Di Stasio issued a rallying cry to protect ailing restaurants, cafes and bars, along with the network of food and drink providers that rely on the sector.

The open letter by Bar di Stasio Citta.

See Di Stasio’s ad in full screen here.

In a withering rebuke of Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews and Scott Morrison, Mr Di Stasio said despite being “disproportionately affected” by the COVID-19 crisis, and outside JobKeeper wage subsidy payments, financial support remained “nearly non-existent”.

“Politicians, those in Government and those in Opposition need to adapt to a ‘new normal’ for governance. Jobs for the boys, zero accountability and preferential treatment all need to stop. It is becoming increasingly obvious how political agendas have failed us,” Mr Di Stasio said.

Outlining a five point plan, Mr Di Stasio said JobKeeper should be extended at the full $1500 rate to Victorians beyond the September deadline, while broadening the scheme to include migrant workers.

“The neglect of temporary visa workers, skilled tax paying members of our workforces is not only shameful, it will cripple hospitality and tourism moving forward,” he said.

An industry veteran with over 40 years experience, Mr Di Stasio said the letter was a “cry for help”.

“I am worried beyond measure that the industry I love is facing total ruin. I invite our leaders and you to come to the table and make a positive contribution,” he said.

“Do we want to see an industry dominated by soulless corporate owned venues with no character or individuality?”

In addition to a return of JobKeeper to the full rate, Mr Di Stasio said pressure should be applied to the banks, to ensure cash flowed back into the economy. He also called for the abolishment of the federal government’s Fringe Benefits Tax and the Victorian government’s Payroll Tax.

Lastly, Mr Di Stasio said industrial relations required reforming, echoing the views of Australia’s pre-eminent business leaders.

“Provide an alternative to the armchair and punitive federal award. Create a new system that allows flexibility, surety and confidence for all employees and their employers alike,” he said.

Mr Di Stasio said the country and its leaders needed to begin preparing for a “Covid Normal” future.