“Consult Australia’s membership includes some of the nation’s largest companies; but 86% of our members are small to medium businesses,” Kristine says.
“Every business we represent has a positive impact on job growth, community connectivity and economic productivity – and we champion measures that make it easier to run business today and to plan for the future,” says Kristine.
The 2024 Federal Budget, delivered on 14 May, allocated $641.4 million to support the 2.5 million small businesses in Australia.
Kristine points to several measures relevant to members. “The $25.3 million to improve payment times to small businesses, and $20.5 million to the Fair Work Ombudsman to assist small business employers to comply with workplace laws, are both welcome,” she says.
A further $10.8 million for programs that support mental and financial wellbeing acknowledge that many small business owners face significant challenges.
Consult Australia’s pre-budget submission laid a strong case for reform across three dimensions: unlocking productivity; improving the retention of people; and restoring balance to contractual relationships through procurement.
Kristy Eulenstein (pictured above), Consult Australia’s Head of Policy and Government Relations, met Andrew Leigh (also pictured), Assistant Minister for Competition, Charities and Treasury, pre-budget to raise critical issues.
“I stressed the importance of the federal Competition Review and the potential positive results for our members if the misleading and deceptive conduct provisions are amended,” Kristy says.
“We will continue to champion pragmatic reforms which will support all member businesses to do what they do best – design our nation’s future,” Kristine says.
“Consult Australia members can contact us to share their insights and experiences so we can reflect those back in our advocacy with governments. When we can point to real-world stories, we have a stronger platform for dialogue.”