The Tasmanian Chamber of Commerce and Industry is the voice of business in Tasmania and wants to see a contest of ideas from major parties to support and improve business confidence.

 

TCCI CEO, Michael Bailey, said the NAB Monthly Business Survey reflects the trends in the TCCI’s Survey of Business Expectations.

 

“Tasmanian businesses are resilient and are dealing with the challenges of higher interest rates, inflation, higher business costs and the broader cost of living,” Mr Bailey said.

 

“But we need both Labor and the Liberals to engage in a battle of ideas to help improve business conditions and raise confidence levels.

 

“Tackling the cost of doing business is one critical area.  Insurance costs, energy costs, skills shortages and challenges with the State’s GBEs are all having an impact.  We would like to see both Labor and the Liberals focus on these issues.

 

“We would also like to see a contest of ideas when it comes to planning and approvals.  The uncertainty around major industries like salmon and major projects like Robbins Island are having a negative impact on business confidence.  

 

“A war of words isn’t going to fix anything.  We need a strong plan to tackle these challenges to improve confidence and we are looking to both major parties at a state and federal level to provide that clear leadership this year.”