Mayor Asfour answers call to support Healtcare workers

City of Canterbury Bankstown Mayor Khal Asfour has joined the campaign to rally behind our frontline healthcare workers fighting the deadly coronavirus.

Off the back of launching his own Community Cares initiative, Mayor Khal Asfour is now joining a News Corp and State Government campaign to help those in need.

In its paper today, The Daily Telegraph has launched a campaign calling on local councils to support the state’s healthcare workers living and working in their respective areas.

“This campaign aligns perfectly with my Community Cares initiative launched today (Wednesday 1 April)’ part of which is encouraging residents to let us know if they are interested in helping community members,” Mayor Asfour said.

“I am now extending this support to healthcare workers, who are our last line of defence against this virus. If you can help, we’ve set up a special hotline 13 CORONA (13 267 662) or email [email protected].

“You will have also seen in the Canterbury-Bankstown Torch that we have provided some ‘I’m here to help’ cut-outs to let your neighbour know what you can help with.

“That may be by picking up groceries or other essential items, preparing a meal, or even just letting them know you are there to talk if needed – I am sure they will greatly appreciate your offer of help.

As part of the Daily Telegraph’s campaign, they are also calling on local councils to waive parking fines for healthcare workers, Mayor Asfour said.

“These heroes have enough to worry about than needing to check on their car and move it from a timed car space,” he said. 

“That is why I stand ready to support any healthcare worker that has incurred a parking fine while attending their workplace in our City.

“I want to hear from any healthcare worker that has been fined. I will then take the matter to the State Debt Recovery Office. If they do not share our compassion, I will take it up with the Premier.

Mayor Asfour added he had already called on Council’s Rangers to exercise leniency with regards to parking across our City, but stressed that illegal behaviour would not be tolerated. 

“Anyone caught parking on a footpath, in a bus zone or no stopping area, or putting the safety of others at risk, especially in a School Zone, will be fined,” Mayor Asfour said.

For more information about Mayor Asfour’s 18-point plan to support residents and business, including the Community Cares initiative, visit cb.city/coronavirus