The Minister for Small Business, Julie Collins MP, will host a series of roundtables with small business leaders this week to discuss Australia’s economic and employment challenges.
These roundtables will ensure Australia’s small businesses are at the centre of the conversation at the upcoming Jobs and Skills Summit.
Small businesses are the engine room of Australia’s economy. They employ millions of Australians and contribute more than $430 billion to our nation’s economy every year.
The Albanese Government recognises the tight labour market and rising inflation is having a serious impact on small businesses.
This follows the significant challenges of the COVID‑19 pandemic and bushfires and floods across large parts of the country.
“Australia’s small businesses have proven to be incredibly resilient, but the Albanese Government knows there is more to do to help support them,” Minister Collins said.
“I’m looking to my discussions this week, and contributing to the upcoming Jobs and Skills Summit.”
The Jobs and Skills Summit at Parliament House on 1 and 2 September will bring together Australians from all backgrounds, including small business, to recommend immediate actions and opportunities for medium and long‑term reform.
Treasury will also invite submissions and engage the wider community over the next 12 months.
Submissions to the White Paper will open later in 2022, and give small business further opportunities to contribute.
“Small businesses are at the centre of local communities across Australia and I’m committed to making sure they are at the centre of the Albanese Government’s decision making,” Minister Collins said.
“This week’s roundtables are an opportunity to continue this conversation and will ensure small businesses are well represented at the upcoming Jobs and Skills Summit.”