The Prime Minister’s early announcement that she plans to go to the polls on 14 September doesn’t reduce the importance of the government staying focused on delivering policies for long-term growth and jobs, not just on winning an election later in the year, Business Council of Australia President Tony Shepherd said.

“It’s formal now that 2013 has become the year of the long campaign. But that doesn’t give the government licence to take its eyes off the ball in managing an economy undergoing major transition,” Mr Shepherd said.

“Both major political parties will be tempted to make rash promises to simply win the election, but with rising costs and many businesses under pressure from the high dollar, policies must be economically responsible and support growth and jobs over the long term.

“Having an election date doesn’t give business or the community certainty or confidence. Only proactive and considered policy that addresses Australia’s economic circumstances will do that.

“We cannot afford to put off the action that is needed now on a medium-term fiscal strategy. The longer we put off the tough conversations on tax reform, workplace relations, Commonwealth–state relations and regulation, the harder the reform task will be.

“Over coming weeks the Business Council will be releasing its election priorities, which are focused on ensuring the country stays ahead of the pack and delivers on the intergenerational responsibilities and other priorities Ms Gillard covered today in her speech,” he said.

For further information contact:
Scott Thompson, Director, Media and Public Affairs
Business Council of Australia
Telephone (03) 8664 2664 | Mobile 0403 241 128