Queensland businesses are looking to this month’s state budget for significant investments to ensure they are ahead of the game, Chamber of Commerce and Industry Queensland’s (CCIQ) State Budget Submission shows.
CCIQ’s submission relies on direct business and chamber data to identify key priorities for Queensland businesses including reducing regulatory burden, and a focus on smart infrastructure, skilled workforces, business sustainability and connected business.
CCIQ CEO Heidi Cooper said feedback from CCIQ members and businesses across the state showed businesses were keen to see hurdles removed and relief for operating costs and complexities for doing business in Queensland.
“This budget should continue to address the past period of upheaval, while also future proofing businesses, removing hurdles and enabling our skilled workforces to provide Queensland with a competitive advantage,” Ms Cooper said.
“We need a budget which ensures Queensland business is ahead of the game.”
“More than half of businesses we surveyed said red tape reform was among their top priorities for this budget.”
Ms Cooper said businesses also ranked investment in economic infrastructure, upskilling and retraining and incentives for sustainable practices among their highest priorities.
“Smart infrastructure is critical for connecting a state as geographically large as Queensland, and for supporting business viability and competitiveness,” Ms Cooper said.
“In particular, the infrastructure delivered as a legacy of the Brisbane 2032 Games must develop further opportunities for Queensland being a great place to do business. It must be sustainable, fit for purpose, multi-functional for broader community and business needs, regional productivity enhancing and connected.
“We need a budget which provides funding to maximise the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games opportunities for business. This needs to prioritise procurement opportunities, advancements in sustainability and infrastructure to ensure all businesses benefit from the Olympic Games.”
Ms Cooper said sustainable business practices were an operational priority for many businesses looking to reduce production waste, save on utility expenditure, and leverage a high-quality reputation, with close to 40% saying investment incentives for sustainable practices were among their top priorities.
“To ensure our business community is ahead of the game we need an economy which is resilient, sustainable and productive,” she said.
“The state government must prioritise key investments and policies that fast track the advancement of our economy, encourage industry diversification and develop future workforces.
“Queensland businesses are still recovering from the impacts of COVID-19 and extreme weather events.
“Future policy areas require an economic recovery focus, which considers the short- and medium-term continuity needs to remain ahead of the game, while removing any degrees of difficulty in doing business.”
Source: CCIQ
