BUSINESS BRIEF 1
OVERVIEW
Welcome to the Joondalup Business Association Business Brief. Every fortnight we will highlight issues that are related to the small business sector of our community.
BODIES OF INFLUENCE
Small Business is influenced in various ways, and to differing degrees, by the three levels of Government we have to work under.
Federal Government has a significant impact through the application of Income Tax on both the individual and corporate entities – it is no secret that we in business would like to see less or lower taxes. We have also become the unpaid tax collector having to pay and collect GST, submit BAS reports and payment of Superannuation. Workplace industrial awards also increase statutory burdens.
State Government has a direct impact through a range of State taxes the worst of which are Land Tax, Payroll Tax and Stamp Duty and are all business activity disincentives. It also loads up the business operator with a mountain of statutory red tape that impedes entrepreneurial opportunities.
Local Government takes its slice of tax income through rates and licensing. The biggest influence is in the way services are provided and how planning issues are processed. Nothing impedes businesses start-ups, sustainability and growth more than planning bureaucracy. Some local governments are proactive in assisting business and community growth and health while others can’t get past being internalised and self-serving. Do we need three levels of Government? It’s doubtful. Will it change? Unlikely. Is it a good and effective business model? Unquestionably not!
WHERE IS SMALL BUSINESS CURRENTLY STIFLED?
At the local level the District Planning Scheme currently under review needs urgent amendment and implementation. The growth of the Joondalup CBD is not a successful model because of the current restraints and unrealistic demands on development. There appears to be little appetite to listen to the small business voice. Parking ratios for developed space for commercial complexes is impractical and unnecessary, off street parking capacity in the CBD is inadequate and is in need of a large parking station.
A large percentage of the developments in the Joondalup Business Park and CBD are non conforming because of the planning requirements being out of synchronisation with market place demand.
This is a critical issue that needs a constructive, immediate resolution.
BUY LOCAL
Nothing assists the growth and success of the Buy Local ethos than buying locally. If the large organisations such as the local authority, education and health providers, banks and tourism establishments used local goods and services it would generate local jobs and economic activity. Government agencies are “our servants” or at least that’s what the public service used to be – we need to reinforce to these agencies that we are their customers and should be treated accordingly.
YOUR SAY
We will regularly highlight a situation that relates to a small business operator who has been poorly or inadequately treated by a statutory authority…if you have such a situation please let us know.
MEMBERSHIP
The JBA is one of the largest and most active business representative groups in the State. Our achievements have been significant. Our strength comes from members – your joining will enhance the small business voice.
Contact the JBA on 9300 1414, write to us at PO Box 24 Joondalup 6919 or email admin@jba.asn.au. www.jba.asn.au