On behalf of the Western Australian business community, CCIWA congratulates Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and the Federal Labor party on their successful election campaign.
CCIWA Chief Executive, Peter Cock, said the fact that both major parties spent a considerable amount of time campaigning in WA highlights how important our state’s economic contribution is to the nation.
“WA’s resources sector drives the quality of life enjoyed by all Australians,” he said.
“It was great to see this recognised so clearly throughout the election campaign.”
Dr Cock said there were a number of critical issues facing businesses and the WA economy in the federal sphere, and CCIWA, whilst continuing to work productively with the government, will advocate strongly on behalf of WA businesses.
“Australia needs a more flexible Industrial Relations system that will better support businesses and job creation. Driving productivity in the Australian economy is vital and Industrial Relations are a critical drive, he said.
“We will seek assurances from the Government that they will step in when industrial disputes escalate, including in our mining heartland, the Pilbara.”
Dr Cock said CCIWA welcomed the Prime Minister’s commitment during the campaign to go back to the drawing board on the controversial “Nature Positive” reforms to environmental approvals.
“It is critical for WA that these reforms strike the right balance,” he said.
“We will work with government to deliver approval reforms that are better for business and better for the environment.”
On gas, Dr Cock said CCIWA would continue to urge to federal government to expedite the approval of the North West Shelf extension project.
“The Prime Minister acknowledged while he was in WA that increasing gas supplies was essential and in the national interest, and that’s precisely what the North West Shelf extension project will do,” he said.
“This project has been languishing in approvals for more than six years. It’s simply too long.
“Gas is absolutely vital to WA and Australia’s energy security and will help to keep the lights on and industry operating during the energy transition.”
Dr Cock acknowledged the looming battle on the GST distribution, with the deal that secured WA’s fair share up for review in the next 12 months.
“Although the Prime Minister has guaranteed there will be no change, we expect a fierce campaign from over east, where governments have failed to develop their own economies,” he said.
“CCIWA and Western Australia more broadly will be ready for the fight.”
Dr Cock said CCIWA would also continue to pursue policies that deliver practical help to WA businesses.
“The business community are facing rising costs, more complex regulation and declining productivity, which is driving down our global competitiveness,” he said.
“Australia desperately needs a suite of reforms to slash red tape, encourage private investment and increase flexibility for all businesses.
