NAB chief executive Ross McEwan says the government could put some of the $60 billion in savings from the JobKeeper scheme into extended support for hard-hit businesses such as tourism operators and restaurants. In a wide-ranging discussion released by the bank, Mr McEwan also predicted consumers' shift away from using cash during the pandemic was likely to be permanent, as customers flock to digital payments. Amid debate over whether the government should bank the savings from last week's $60 billion costing bungle, or spend the money elsewhere, Mr McEwan said the scheme was playing a "vital" role in helping firms hold onto workers. He highlighted the plight of tourism-linked businesses especially, including hotels, cafes, bars, and nightclubs.