As the federal election approaches, businesses cannot afford to stand on the sidelines. The policies put forward by candidates will shape our economic future, particularly when it comes to the growth and sustainability of cities like Geelong and the support of small to medium businesses (SMEs). The decisions made by the incoming government will directly influence your business and its ability to thrive in an ever-changing environment.
At the Geelong Chamber of Commerce, we have a clear vision for the future – that Geelong is one of the best places to do business globally. We expect the federal government to prioritise two key areas that will be instrumental to the success of our region.
The first is investing in our regional city to drive economic output – Geelong is positioned for tremendous growth, with the potential to make a significant economic contribution to both the state and the nation. We expect the federal government to invest in the prioritised infrastructure and initiatives that will allow cities like ours to reach their full potential. This includes investments in innovation, start-ups, industry capacity building, and sustainable development, which will not only enhance the liveability of our city but also attract new industries and create jobs. By focusing on our region’s growth, we can capitalise on the opportunities that Geelong’s expanding economy presents, driving long-term prosperity for businesses and residents alike.
The second key area is supporting and investing in small to medium enterprise – SMEs are the backbone of our economy, and they need the right support to thrive in an increasingly competitive landscape. We expect the federal government to provide targeted investments and initiatives that foster growth, resilience, and innovation within the SME sector. This includes reducing regulatory burdens and creating programs that promote innovation and skill development.
Geelong is lacking a home, a physical space for local economic development – supporting inbound investment, business services, start-up & growth programs. Where is the thriving hub that fosters entrepreneurial outcomes in the heart of the city? The strength of our local businesses lies in their ability to adapt and grow, and we believe that federal investment in this space will help create a more self-sustainable and prosperous business environment across the region.
Why should businesses care about the outcome of this election? Because the policies that emerge from it will directly impact business operations, growth potential, and future success.
Whether the government is formed by a majority or a minority, we expect better results for businesses, particularly in the areas we’ve outlined – investment in our city and support for small businesses.
It’s time for businesses to expect more from the federal government – no matter which party wins. With your involvement and the collective power of Geelong Chamber members, we can ensure that the outcome of this election works for the benefit of the entire business community.
Jeremy Crawford
CEO
Geelong Chamber of Commerce
