Twenty business groups from right across Australia are calling on the Prime Minister, Opposition Leader and independents to provide a commitment for a policy agenda that backs businesses to succeed and deliver prosperity for all Australians in uncertain times.
The significant group covers every part of the economy and includes small, medium and large businesses, farmers, tourist and transport operators, manufacturers, miners, energy producers, newsagents and regional supermarkets.
The campaign, which launched on Thursday, calls on all MPs and Senators to support an agenda in the next term, for businesses to grow and thrive so all Australians can benefit through real wage increases and greater prosperity.
Business Council Chief Executive Bran Black said backing businesses to be successful would drive economic growth and improve living standards, which is more important than ever given global uncertainty.
"Global uncertainty, including in relation to US tariffs, makes it more important than ever that the Government, Opposition and independents back policies that support businesses of all sizes in Australia to grow and generate prosperity," Mr Black said.
"Both sides of politics have said private sector-led growth is critical for our economy to recover, and so we need to see clear actions outlined in a long-term economic plan to achieve that.
"We need to see genuine reforms that address the high costs of running a business by reducing red tape, restoring a sense of balance to our IR system, delivering a taxation system that's competitive and sustainable, and creating a better approvals system."
Twenty business groups co-signed a joint letter to the Prime Minister, Opposition Leader, independents and all MPs calling for a new agenda that must back the role of successful businesses, at all levels, in building improved Australian living standards.
In the last year alone, businesses paid $143 billion in company tax.
The following comments are attributed to the respective associations which have co-signed the letter.
Attributed to COSBOA Chief Executive Luke Aachterstraat
"This campaign matters to the 2.6 million small businesses who are the largest private sector employer in the country. It matters to our regions, remote and rural Australia - where mum-and-dad businesses are still more likely than anyone to give young people their first job and to sponsor the local footy club."
Attributed to National Farmers' Federation CEO Troy Williams
"Family farms are the engine room of our regions and our economy, contributing $88 billion in output and over 250,000 jobs."
"Australian farmers are at the intersection of major megatrends reshaping the sector. This election, farmers want action: less red and green tape, smarter investment, and a clear path to drive productivity across the nation."
Attributed to ACCI Chief Executive Andrew McKellar
"Only a prosperous business sector can provide the lift in productivity and economic growth we need."
"In the face of growing global uncertainty, policies to support business are needed more than ever if we want our economy to grow."
"The next government must prioritise issues such as stalled productivity and over regulation which are acting as a hand brake on business."
Attributed to Tourism & Transport Forum CEO, Margy Osmond
"Successful business is the lifeblood of our society. Infrastructure, goods, services, and experiences drive the economy. A government that supports business from its grassroots is supporting the future of Australia."
"Tourism is not just a sector, it's a gateway to economic growth enhancing Australia's global appeal, creating jobs, and boosting regional economies. An environment where businesses can thrive is an environment where tourism can thrive."
"A strong business foundation fuels the growth of a vibrant visitor economy, creating a powerful engine for growth and a dynamic future for the nation."
Attributed to Australian Travel Industry Association Chief Executive Dean Long
"Our members represent the majority of Australia's travel agents, tour operators and wholesalers-businesses that booked over $30 billion in travel services last year alone."
"With 92 per cent of our members being small businesses and 72 per cent of our workforce made up of women, reducing regulatory burdens is critical to maintaining a strong, competitive and inclusive industry."
"We're proud to stand with other sectors in calling for smarter regulation that supports growth and lets businesses focus on delivering for Australians."
Attributed to Master Grocers Australia Chief Executive David Inall
"Each and every day, independent retail businesses are grappling with the ever-increasing cost of doing business, while at the same time striving to offer value to their customers."
"Businesses must navigate increasingly complex and oppressive red tape compliance and convoluted industrial relations settings. This simply cannot continue."
