What’s happening?
Federal Member for Bowman Henry Pike is calling for urgent economic reform after surveying Redlands businesses in early July. According to Mr Pike, the results show a clear message: local businesses are struggling, and current federal policies are failing to deliver support.
Why it matters
Mr Pike says businesses in the Redlands are being hit by rising costs, burdensome regulation, and a lack of effective federal backing. He argues that immediate action is needed to avoid further economic slowdown.
“Redlands businesses are doing it tough. They’re being squeezed by rising costs, stifling regulation, and a lack of real support from Canberra,” Mr Pike said.
Local Impact
The survey reflects the real-world effects of national policies on Redlands business owners and their staff. Mr Pike says the data isn’t just about numbers, but about the families, employers, and workers in the community.
“These aren’t just numbers – they reflect real struggles for local families, employers, and workers right here in our community,” he said.
By the Numbers:
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96% of Redlands business owners expect their operating costs to increase over the next 12 months
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54% believe the economy will shrink this financial year
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Only 11% think current federal policy is helping to drive jobs or investment
National economic figures support these local concerns. Quarterly growth has slowed to 0.2%, annual growth is at 1.3%, and Australia has dropped from 20th to 60th globally in real GDP growth per person.
Zoom In
Mr Pike has criticised the Albanese Government’s proposed productivity summit, calling it a distraction from the real issues facing businesses.
“Productivity is in freefall. Investment has stalled. Small businesses are tangled in red tape. We don’t need another roundtable. We need decisions,” he said.
He plans to push for the following changes when Parliament returns:
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Reinstating full expensing to support business investment
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Cutting red tape for small business
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Simplifying industrial relations to allow for more flexible workplace agreements
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Creating a more competitive tax system to attract investment
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Ending selective industry handouts to ensure fair competition
Zoom Out
The call for reform highlights wider national concerns about economic stagnation and household living standards. The drop in global GDP rankings and sluggish growth show a broader trend that is being felt locally.
What to look for next?
Mr Pike says he will take these concerns to Parliament and advocate for immediate policy changes aimed at lifting productivity and backing small business.
