THE 2017 Small Business Roadshow led by Federal Small Business Minister Michael McCormack lands in Brisbane today, with leaders from the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC), Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman (ASBFEO) and Australian Taxation Office (ATO) attending a forum hosted in the CBD by Brisbane MP Trevor Evans.
Mr Michael McCormack, who started the roadshow last month, said Queensland’s small business sector was a vital part of Australia’s strong economic performance in the last quarter.
“Economic data released last week shows Australia’s economy growing, investment and confidence up and Australians’ willingness to think local first for the goods and services they need,” Mr McCormack said.
“I want to see Queensland’s small businesses continue to do what they do best – hire people, grow opportunities for Australians and build vibrant local communities across the state.
“That’s why I am in Brisbane with Trevor Evans today, to meet directly with more than 150 small businesspeople, to hear their ideas and concerns and to get the feedback I need to continue working for them.”
Mr McCormack said small business is central to the Government’s economic plan, underpinned by targeted plans to help it grow.
“I know it is small business – not Government – which creates jobs and opportunities for Australians. That’s why I want to cut the company tax rate for small business and make paperwork simpler. I also want to give more small businesses access to the $20,000 instant asset write-off programme and help see them keep Australia’s economy growing,” Mr McCormack said.
Brisbane MP Trevor Evans said he was excited to showcase local businesses to the Minister. He said it was important for the Minister to see both the opportunities and challenges faced by small business operators in Brisbane.
“I’m looking forward to introducing the Minister to small business operators like Brad Carswell who runs a tree-lopping business, employing six full-time staff,” Mr Evans said.
“Operators such as Brad don’t run unique businesses, but their story is a similar one experienced across the country. They work seven days a week to create employment and contribute to our economy, all the while facing increasing competition and sliming margins.”
Mr Carswell said he was looking forward to the opportunity to get in front of the Minister.
“While I’m excited for the Government to be introducing cuts to the corporate tax rate, I’m also looking forward to raising with him some of the challenges we face in the industry in terms of red tape and industrial relations,” Mr Carswell said.
Mr McCormack’s forum will be held with Australia Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman Kate Carnell and senior leaders from the ACCC and ATO at Brisbane’s Post Office Hotel from midday today.
The roadshow will head to regional Queensland tomorrow.