Toowoomba business priorities in the state election

SMALL and medium-sized enterprises remain the backbone of the Toowoomba economy providing over half of jobs locally and it is critical that state government policy supports the future growth of this important sector.

The top concerns for businesses locally include skyrocketing electricity prices, employment roadblocks including payroll tax, red tape and onerous regulatory requirements, as well as pressures in recruiting and retaining skilled staff in their businesses.

Toowoomba businesses also need to be supported by infrastructure to ensure their future growth and their capacity to innovate recognising that digital connectivity is equally alongside road, rail and air access.

The Toowoomba Chamber of Commerce has called for the following top five priorities to be addressed in the lead up to the election:

Increase the payroll tax threshold immediately with a longer-term view to abolishing this tax on jobs

Address the energy crisis through a number of measures including an education campaign for SMEs to navigate the marketplace and plan their future strategy as well as the introduction of regional retail competition

Set targets for the reduction in red tape and work with SMEs to address the regulatory stranglehold on business growth

Re-vitalise workforce skilling initiatives with a focus on increased support for apprenticeships, youth unemployment and enabling employment from across the disability sector and those with a barrier to employment

Provide innovation support for existing businesses with a focus on capitalising on the digital economy

Infrastructure to support business growth and opportunity is critical and chamber sees the following five projects topping the wish list for Toowoomba moving forward:

Toowoomba CBD parking

Stage 3 New Acland mine approval Digital Connectivity . The Quarry Gardens Flood mitigation

The Toowoomba Chamber of Commerce is holding a Meet the Candidate forum giving each candidate the opportunity to articulate their vision for the community and give attendees the chance to ask questions of the candidates.

Bookings are essential, to book go to toowoomba chamber.com.au.

The forum will be held on Tuesday, November 21 from 5.30pm to 7pm.