Master Builders Call To The Next Government
06 September 2013
On Saturday Australians will have the chance to determine which party will govern for the next three years but the profound economic challenges facing the nation will not disappear.
Master Builders Call To The Next Government
On Saturday Australians will have the chance to determine which party will govern for the next three years but the profound economic challenges facing the nation will not disappear.
Whoever emerges as the next Prime Minister will not have a magic wand to wave over the economy and structural budget deficit.
Ahead of the election, Master Builders has called for a radical change in the public policy narrative to ensure that the economy is set on the right path not just for the next three years but for the next three decades.
There must be a return to realistic and achievable policy road maps which clearly articulate not only their objectives but inspire confidence in their implementation.
Strategic economic and Budget blueprints combined with pragmatic productivity reforms must be the cornerstones of success for the next Government.
What is at stake is the restoration of business confidence, a long term vision to keep Australia competitive in the Asian century, remain an attractive destination for foreign investment and for the building industry’s ability to generate economic growth. This is required to address societal challenges arising from our aging population, deliver a paid parental leave and a disability insurance scheme.
Sound economic policies and disciplined fiscal management will be essential. We need to attract foreign equity capital. We don't need more government debt. We need to generate wealth not squander it. We need business to grow. We need small businesses to flourish.
It is only business that can generate economic growth, create jobs and pay taxes. Returning the IR pendulum to the sensible centre will boost the productivity required to drive more growth, more jobs and increased revenue.
Disciplined policy will be required to ensure that our legislative and institutional frameworks are responsive to the challenge of providing better community infrastructure to support a strong economy, respond to growing and changing housing needs and to provide rewarding careers for young people and build more liveable communities.
The outcome of Saturday’s election will, more than most, be important in shaping Australia’s long-term outlook. The building and construction industry can be a key engine of a strengthening economy and renewed confidence and will work with whichever party wins government in pursuit of a strong building industry and a strong economy.
Master Builders Australia, Level 1, 16 Bentham Street (PO Box 7170 YARRALUMLA ACT 2600,
