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COSBOA has said SMEs will play a critical role in this federal election, as small business owners make up between eight and 16 per cent of voters.
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Small businesses to play 'vital' role in election
23 May 2016
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"There is no denying that the vote of every small business owner and those working for them counts," said Peter Strong, CEO of COSBOA.
According to COSBOA, small business represents a significant number of voters in marginal seats across Australia.
The industry body gave the example of the seat of McEwen (VIC), in which there is just a 0.2 per cent margin and the small business community makes up 9.4 per cent of voters.
"It's easy to get caught up in the frenzy of a federal election and focus on the major two parties, but communities need to look to at the individuals who will be representing their community and what they stand for," Mr Strong said.
"Small businesses impact everyone's day-to-day lives, from local accountants, gyms, cafes and grocers to health practitioners and owner-drivers. We need a government with a clear direction that includes key policies to support small business, then the entire community benefits and Australia’s cultural fabric gains strength."
Mr Strong added: "It cannot be stressed enough the importance of being informed on policy when casting a vote. Small business drives the economy and supports a diverse culture. To disadvantage this sector would be disastrous."
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Above all else, COSBOA said the main election theme needs to be about transparency in government.
"There must be an end to secret big union and big business influence on policy and process. It is not just small business people that suffer from covert influence, it’s also medium businesses, non-employing independent contractors and Australian workers. The economy cannot be managed effectively in back rooms and dark places," warned Mr Strong.
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