Taxing time for the next State Government

Mar, 2009

THE next State Government will need to deliver genuine vision and policies focusing on a strong economy if they are to be backed by Queensland business owners on March 21, according to a survey by Chamber of Commerce & Industry Queensland (CCIQ).

CCIQ president Beatrice Booth says addressing the concerns of business and generating a positive business environment will be crucial if Queenslanders are to return to the period of prosperity they have become accustomed to.

“It is important the next State Government whether LNP or Labor, implements a policy program that prioritises economic growth, responsible economic management, and enhances the overall business operating environment,” says Booth.

“The single greatest thing a business can do to enhance the wellbeing of the state’s community is to provide secure ongoing employment. We must be highly active in bringing down the barriers for this to occur. CCIQ will be placing the management of the economy at the front and centre of its agenda for the next State Government.”

Booth says the level of economic activity is the most crucial issue as Queensland business owners prepare for the showdown between the Bligh Government and the Lawrence Springborg headed LNP.

“The business community wants the next State Government to shore up business confidence and, in turn, the economy,” she says.

“Businesses want a competitive operating environment that delivers the ability to employ, and that will provide an overall robust level of economic activity.”

Among the top 20 concerns by those surveyed were – overall levels of Commonwealth and State taxation and payroll tax and stamp duties, a clear message to the existing and future Government to reduce the level of impost created by state taxes.

The survey indicated a number of other concerns plaguing the business community and in urgent need of attention to facilitate economic growth, including workplace relations, infrastructure, skills development, workplace health and safety and the environment.

The survey results will be used to prepare CCIQ’s economic blueprint, which underpins representations and submissions to the major political parties during the pre-election period and after the election of the next State Government.

“We will be seeking a formal response to the economic blueprint and will closely examine the policies of both major political parties in the lead up to the state election to ensure they address the concerns arising from the survey,” says Booth.

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