By JONATHON HOWARD
A CLEAR mandate following this weekend’s Federal election needs to address the continuing slump in business and consumer confidence, says Warwick Chamber of Commerce President David Littleproud.
Mr Littleproud said increased costs and red tape were all costing businesses and whoever wins the election “needs to address this immediately”.
His comments have been echoed around Australia as businesses seek assurances for the future and ease consumers’ cautious spending.
“Since becoming president of the Warwick Chamber I have consistently stated that we need to diversify our economic base if we are to progress our economy into the future,” Mr Littleproud said.
“While we have a strong manufacturing and distribution base, that also has potential to expand due to our competitive advantages, if we rely solely on this then we open our local economy up to future shocks when macro economic conditions turn downwards.”
Mr Littleproud said the region was in desperate need of diversifying the economic base by attracting more highly skilled workers and industries that bring with them higher disposable income and investment.
“A strong tourism sector is one way of attracting those by allowing those people to experience our superior lifestyle of which there are a number of examples already in the Southern Downs,” he said.
“The Chamber wants to work with council to expand on these strategies but we can’t afford to keep talking and seeking reports we simply need to take action.”
