CCIWA calls for key business supports during Middle East crisis

CCIWA has called on State and Federal Governments to implement measures to soften the impact of the Middle East crisis on businesses.

The short, medium and long-term recommendations were developed after consultation with WA businesses and the broader community.

CCIWA is advocating to:

• Keep WA competitive by securing fuel supply and ensuring gaps in distribution are prioritised
• Avoid policy responses that amplify inflationary pressure or input costs during a supply constrained period (eg. new levies, cost adding)
• Maintain clear, factual and regular communication
• Ensure business continuity by providing government support measures that are timely, temporary and targeted

Regional businesses are priority

CCIWA CEO Will Golsby said the immediate priority was to ensure fuel supply was getting to critical industries across WA’s regions.

“While supply appears to be secure right now, we the nation and State need to be prepared for fuel supply shortages and where rationing may be required,” he said.

“It is vital that agriculture, trades, healthcare and transport/logistics are considered priority sectors if fuel rationing is introduced.

“There are other areas that will be obvious candidates such as emergency services, resources and public transport, but it is essential the sectors we’ve highlighted are also exempt from any rationing.”

Fuel support for health and disability sector

CCIWA’s recent snap business confidence survey found health and disability care businesses were among the hardest hit by fuel costs, with 56% battling higher costs to deliver at-home care.

Golsby said these businesses were unable to pass on higher costs, which was adding to the pressure.

“We also call on the Federal Government to provide fuel vouchers to businesses operating under Federal contracts with fixed pricing structures, including NDIS and healthcare providers,” he said.

Cost measures to help business and households

CCIWA is also calling for several fees and charges to be reduced or suspended immediately to address cost pressures on businesses and households.

“We saw during COVID that car licensing fees were frozen to give businesses and the community some relief, so we know that this sort of step can be taken quite easily,” Golsby said.

“Businesses in WA were telling us before this crisis began that they were being squeezed by rising costs, and that has escalated dramatically over the course of the last five weeks.

“Both levels of Government should consider any and every measure at their disposal to ease this pressure on businesses and to protect our economy.”

CCIWA has also called on the Federal Government to re-establish programs to support apprentices and trainees and extend the Instant Asset Write-Off beyond June 2026.

CCIWA is monitoring the fuel situation and business impacts closely. See our Middle East Crisis Hub for updates, practical resources, advice and support available from CCIWA.

Become a CCIWA Member to ensure you access our business support services and receive the latest updates and information to help your business through this crisis. Contact us via [email protected] or on 1300 422 492.