Coronavirus: uncertainty over $1bn relief fund for Australian tourism, education and agriculture

Fund intended to work as both relief and recovery, like program rolled out in wake of bushfires, Scott Morrison says

Regions and communities that are severely impacted by the coronavirus will be given access to taxpayer support through a new $1bn fund - but it is unclear how the fund will operate, because the practicalities will be worked through with the states.

Scott Morrison unveiled the fund on Thursday as part of the government's $17bn economic stimulus package, saying support would be given to industries battling the negative economic consequences of the pandemic, such as tourism, agriculture and education.