The Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry welcomes and congratulates Premier Ben Carroll as the new leader of the Victorian Government.
The Victorian Chamber believes the next chapter of Victoria's prosperity depends on getting the fundamentals right: a credible plan to repair the state's finances, decisive action to tackle crime and corruption, and a renewed commitment to integrity and accountability in government. These reforms are essential to restoring confidence, attracting investment and securing Victoria's long-term success.
- Establish a plan for reducing state debt
Victoria's tax burden is the heaviest of the states. Victoria's current fiscal strategy relies on heavy borrowing, heavy taxation and the hope that economic growth will eventually close the gap. Premier Carroll needs to implement a proactive fiscal management strategy that charts a credible, transparent path to a lower tax burden and to provide for public services that Victorians expect.
- Effectively tackle crime and improve community safety
Crime is one of the most significant concerns for businesses in Victoria. Seven in 10 businesses have told the Victorian Chamber that crime and safety concerns have impacted major business decisions. At the same time, organised crime is at record levels and has a direct impact on business operations.
- Restore the integrity and confidence of the government's capital program
Confidence is vital for the future of Victoria, not just for the private sector but for every Victorian. The Victorian Chamber urges the new leader to restore trust and confidence in government and strengthen integrity across government capital projects. Allegations of widespread corruption plaguing government infrastructure projects must be the subject of a Royal Commission, and police must be empowered to follow the money and seize unexplained wealth linked to criminal activity.
Currently, businesses in Victoria are seeing costs outpace growth due to a pile-on of pressure, including measures controlled by state policies. They are ready to invest, employ and grow, but they need confidence that Victoria is on the right track.
To be attributed to Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry Chief Executive Sally Curtain:
"I congratulate and welcome Premier Ben Carroll as the new leader of Victoria. A new leader brings new opportunities for success, not just for business, but for all of Victoria. Businesses not only want a government that understands the challenges, they want a leader who can accelerate growth.
The Victorian Government needs a reset. For too long, businesses have been stuck in neutral - it has been far too hard to invest, employ people and grow a business. It's time to take off the handbrake and shift gears to make Victoria the place to operate a business, not the last place.
The challenges facing Victoria need partnership. By working together, government and business can create the conditions that set up Victoria for success well into the future. Businesses are part of the solution, not the problem, and we look forward to working with the new leader and their government."
