Martin Pakula says he expects more and more workers will return to the CBD in the coming weeks, but the city’s revival “won’t happen overnight”.

The Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events joined Neil Mitchell on Wednesday.

He was asked what could be done to get workers back into the city to help CBD traders.

“I think ultimately, what business wants – apart from the vouchers and subsides – is just their customer base back,” Mr Pakula said.

Neil Mitchell asked what could be done to encourage the public sector back into the city.

Mr Pakula said that was already happening.

But he expects it will be a slower process than many would hope, starting with workers coming in a few days a week at first.

“It won’t all happen overnight and it’s not happening in the private sector, either,” he said.

Press PLAY below to hear Martin Pakula speak with Neil Mitchell