Introduction

The Victorian economy has remained resilient in the face of many obstacles. The closure of local car manufacturing, rising energy costs and declining levels of private investment and productivity have all contributed to a challenging business environment. In recent years Victoria’s growth has been underpinned by government spending on public infrastructure, such as new and upgraded roads and rail networks.

Private sector investment, by contrast, has weakened considerably. While government investment is welcome, it is also unsustainable and fraught with risk. The Victorian Automobile Chamber of Commerce (VACC) believes that stimulation of private sector investment and productivity should be the cornerstone of economic growth on all sides of politics. With more than 590,000 businesses in Victoria employing 90 per cent of the workforce, Victoria’s businesses are the real engine room of our state’s economy.

Only by supporting businesses through sound policies and meaningful reform can future jobs growth and prosperity be truly delivered. Better Business, Better Victoria outlines key areas for reform, as identified by more than 5,200 businesses represented by VACC, the peak automotive industry association in Victoria. VACC’s Better Business, Better Victoria advocates for the following priority reforms for the next Victorian Government:

+ Apprenticeships and Skill Shortages

+ Payroll Tax

+ Industrial Manslaughter

+ Fuel Theft

+ Modernisation of the Duties Act 2000

+ Regulation of Motor Vehicle Insurance & Repair Industry Code of Conduct

+ Fair Trading

+ Electronic Roadworthy Certificates

+ End of Life Vehicle Disposal.