The Tasmanian Small Business Council (TSBC) has welcomed the Tasmanian Liberal’s continued commitment to small business, after the party announced they will establish a Small Business Advocate position and the B21 (Business 21st Century) initiative if re-elected in March.
The Small Business Advocate will work from the Office of the Coordinator General to create a more level playing field and assist small businesses in trying to resolve disputes with larger businesses, State Government bodies and local councils.
B21 is a strategic partnership with business and industry representatives through the Tasmanian Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Tasmanian Small Business Council, with input from local chambers of commerce, industry peak bodies and other relevant organisations.
The partnership will ensure private sector goals and Government policies are aligned, and strategic economic levers allow business and industry to build on the economic momentum already being experienced in Tasmania.
Chairman of the TSBC Geoff Fader said small businesses were the engine room of the economy, so any move to assist them in their operations would have significant benefits for the whole of Tasmania.
“There are 35,000 small businesses in Tasmania providing income and jobs for some 110,000 people,” Mr Fader said.
“Small businesses are not reliant on taxpayer handouts to survive, and taxes paid by businesses contribute significantly to the state’s economy.
“It is the success of these businesses that generate the financial wealth of Tasmania and the ability for governments to invest in the needs of the people.”
Mr Fader said building strong relationships between industry and government was vital to capitalise on the opportunities present in the Tasmanian market.
“Initiatives such as B21 and the establishment of the Small Business Advocate position will ensure industry and government can work together to make the economic potential of Tasmania a reality,” he said.
“On behalf of small business in Tasmania, I congratulate the State Government for undertaking both of these initiatives.”
The Tasmanian Small Business Council
