The Business Council of Australia and the Council of Small Business Organisations Australia will host the Business Debate, ahead of the May 3 election, with global uncertainty highlighting the need for both parties to deliver an economic plan that backs businesses.
On April 23, one day after early voting starts, both Treasurer Jim Chalmers and Shadow Treasurer Angus Taylor will go head-to-head at the BCA and COSBOA joint event - The Business Debate; a plan for Australia's economic future.
The event will be the first time during the campaign a debate is held directly with representatives from both small and large businesses. This is expected to be the last economic debate of the campaign.
Business Council Chief Executive Bran Black said it was imperative that both sides present a long-term plan for economic and productivity growth, in the interest of growing prosperity for all Australians.
"Rising global uncertainty means it is more important than ever that our political leaders present their economic vision to support small and large businesses to grow and generate prosperity," Mr Black said.
"With six in every seven workers employed by the private sector, and businesses and the people they employ accounting for the bulk of tax revenue, we need to see both parties put forward a plan that fosters private sector-led growth.
"Around 80 per cent of our economic output comes from businesses, and so if we're to grow prosperity for all Australians and boost living standards, the test for both parties is whether they have a plan to support businesses to grow."
COSBOA CEO Luke Achterstraat said small businesses were the backbone of the economy and he looked forward to co-hosting the debate.
"Small businesses employ over 5 million Australians but are often taken for granted and hidden in plain sight."
"We anticipate this debate will provide constructive engagement to discuss the challenges and opportunities facing the Australian economy, and hope this becomes an annual fixture."
"During uncertain economic times, dialogue and engagement between industry has never been more important."
Mr Achterstraat said COSBOA has been advocating for tax reform and red tape reduction to help get small businesses back on their feet after a challenging period.
"We encourage members of the community to support our Fair GO for small business campaign in recognition of the critical role they play across Australia."
The BCA has put forward an election platform in its Big Five Questions document provided to both major parties, and will continue to advocate for necessary policy actions in these areas:
How do we ease the cost-of-living crisis for Australians?
How do we tackle the housing crisis?
How do we achieve net zero by 2050 with affordable and reliable energy?
How do we develop a skilled workforce for the future?
How do we deliver the health and care services Australians need?
