MGA Independent Businesses Australia (MGA) is calling on all major parties to act on the key challenges impacting small businesses across urban, rural and regional communities.
As campaigning draws near to the end, support for the sector must be a Federal Election priority, says the national industry association that representing thousands of independent grocery and liquor retail businesses across the country.
“Our members are at the heart of their communities, providing essential goods, local jobs, and vital services,” MGA said. “Their future depends on practical, fair and responsive policy.”
MGA urges all parties and candidates to support action across five critical areas:
Simplifying employment law
Australia’s employment laws are overly complex and increasingly difficult to navigate and understand, which can serve to discourage employers taking on more staff as well as failing to meet the modern flexibility needs of younger workers.
Crack down on illicit tobacco
Illicit tobacco undermines independent retailers and shrinks Federal tax revenue. MGA urges the adoption of previous federal inquiry recommendations, including a national tobacco licensing scheme, revisit tobacco excise policy through the lens that considers the exploding illicit market and delivering coordinated enforcement with increased funding through National Cabinet.
Tackle law and order
Retail theft, violence, and antisocial behaviour – increasingly linked to illicit tobacco – must be elevated as an urgent priority. We need a nationally consistent approach to protecting the right of people to feel safe in their workplace. MGA urges the Prime Minister to lead a cross-jurisdictional response through National Cabinet that supports the States in grappling with this burgeoning problem.
Reduce red tape
Duplicated and complex compliance requirements are a major burden on small business, including excessive compliance costs, complex employment relations, record keeping and reporting. Governments must commit to clear targets to cut red tape and drive efficiency.
Cost of doing business
Small retailers are being squeezed by rising costs across the board – wages, energy, insurance, transport, and goods – placing immense pressure on viability. Immediate relief and long-term cost containment strategies must be prioritised to ensure small business survival and competitiveness.
“Independent retailers are the backbone of our communities – but they cannot continue to operate under mounting pressure,” said David Inall, CEO of MGA Independent Businesses Australia.
“We call on all parties to work with us in delivering practical solutions that support small business growth, safety, and long-term viability.”