Call to defer payroll taxes TASSIE
Top spot bonus but jobless a worry Our economy is leading the nation
THE Tasmanian government must suspend the collection of payroll tax for the duration of the pandemic to help the economic recovery, the state’s peak business body says.
Tasmanian Chamber of Commerce and Industry chief Micheal Bailey said the state’s strong performance in the latest CommSec report was welcome but warned against complacency.
“While the rankings are a strong nod towards the Tasmanian business sector’s resilience and the state government’s management of the pandemic, unemployment numbers remain a concern and highlight the need for further lifting of restrictions” he said.
“It is hoped today’s reopening of borders to safe states will provide a much- needed boost for those businesses doing it tough, but this boost also needs to be backed in by more measures designed to not only open
up the economy but stimulate it as well.
“One of these measures is the issue of payroll tax, which needs to be addressed immediately. Payroll tax is a tax on jobs, which Tasmania certainly can’t afford right now.
“As well as payroll tax, it is vital further operating restrictions are lifted, to help lift the invisible handbrake many businesses currently have holding them back.”
Premier and Treasurer Peter Gutwein said the result
should be a point of pride for Tasmanians.
“It demonstrates that Tasmania has a resilient and strong economy, it demonstrates that you know once again we continue to lead the country in terms of our economic performance,” he said.
“This is the third report in a row that Tasmania has been leading all of the other states and jurisdictions and I think Tasmanians can take some pride in that.”