Federal Member for Bowman Henry Pike says Redlands businesses are under pressure and need urgent policy reform, not more political talkfests.
After surveying local Redland business owners over the first week in July, Mr Pike says confidence is low and cost pressures are rising.
“Redlands businesses are doing it tough. They’re being squeezed by rising costs, stifling regulation, and a lack of real support from Canberra,” Mr Pike said.
The survey of Redlands businesses revealed:
- 96% expect their operating costs to increase over the next 12 months
- Over half (54%) believe the economy will shrink this financial year
- Only 11% think current federal policy is helping drive jobs or investment
“These aren’t just numbers - they reflect real struggles for local families, employers, and workers right here in our community,” Mr Pike said.
Recent national data also paints a grim picture. Quarterly economic growth was just 0.2%, annual growth has slowed to 1.3%, and Australia has dropped from 20th to 60th globally in real GDP growth per person - a key measure of household living standards.
Mr Pike has criticised the Albanese Government’s planned “productivity summit.”
“Productivity is in freefall. Investment has stalled. Small businesses are tangled in red tape. We don’t need another roundtable. We need decisions.” Mr Pike said.
When Parliament returns, Mr Pike says he will push for:
- Reinstating full expensing to allow businesses to immediately deduct capital investments
- Cutting red tape to ease the burden on small business
- Simplifying awards and industrial relations to promote flexible bargaining
- Making our tax system more competitive to encourage investment
- Ending industry handouts and letting all sectors compete on a level playing field
“It’s time to get serious about productivity and put power back in the hands of the people who drive our economy - our local business community,” Mr Pike said.