Recent decisions impacting trade and energy are creating new challenges for Australian businesses, and the Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI) is working hard at the federal level to address these issues for business.
The US Administration’s decision to impose tariffs on Australian steel and aluminum, without exemptions, is deeply disappointing. Trade barriers between Australia and the United States harm businesses and consumers alike. The federal government is right to call this an unfriendly act from our largest strategic partner, and we must continue pressing for an exemption.
ACCI is actively working alongside the Australian Government, as well as partner organisations both here and in the US, to push for fair trade policies that protect Australian businesses and jobs.
Closer to home, South Australia businesses are feeling the impact of rising electricity costs with no relief in sight following the Australian Energy Regulator’s (AER) draft determination seeking to lift the Default Market Offer (DMO) for small businesses and households. This means that small businesses could face electricity cost increases of around 6.6%.
The AER cites high demand, unreliable coal-fired generators, and the slow transition to renewable energy as contributing factors to the increase.
The DMO serves as a safety net that sets the maximum price that retailers can charge their customers who have not compared other offers to seek a better deal. It also acts as a benchmark that must be used as a reference point for other market offers.
Over 14,400 small business customers are on the DMO in South Australia. We encourage businesses to review their electricity contracts regularly to check whether other market offers might better suit their needs.
With challenges at both the state and federal levels contributing to unpredictable and rising energy costs, there must be a coordinated response from governments to ensure reliable and affordable energy.
The South Australian Business Chamber continues to advocate strongly for local businesses, ensuring your concerns are heard at the highest levels.
If your business is affected by these issues, please contact me at policy@sabusinesschamber.com.au to discuss how we can work together to secure better outcomes for South Australian businesses.
