The Productivity Commission has released the final report for its research study on Regulator Engagement with Small Business, which examined the way in which different regulators engage with small business.
The Minister for Small Business, Bruce Billson, welcomed the report saying it is common knowledge that small businesses feel the burden of regulation more strongly than larger businesses, and this report identifies a number of ways in which regulators can make life easier for small businesses.
The Commission found that the burden experienced by small business is as much due to dealing with a regulator as it is due to the regulations themselves.
Many regulators understand what has to be done to improve their engagement with small businesses, but often the regulators aren't able to implement the right strategies to engage with a very diverse range of small businesses.
The Commission's report suggests that there are opportunities for regulators across Australia to improve the regulatory experience for small business.
If implemented properly, improved engagement strategies have the potential to result in a win-win situation for small businesses and regulators.
The Commission's report represents a significant body of work that can inform broader work on deregulation.
The Government looks forward to considering the Commission's recommendations as part of its broader commitment to reducing the regulatory burden.