Good time to support local business
SMALL business owners are working longer hours to avoid wage costs, Warwick Chamber of Commerce President David Littleproud said.
Mr Littleproud's comments came in the wake of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry (COCI) expressing an urgent need for an independent review of the Fair Work Act.
A November survey of 400 Queensland businesses by the COCI showed 46 per cent of businesses experienced a decrease in profits as a result of the act and modern awards.
"Especially with the other financial pressures, the hours small business owners are putting in will continue to rise as a result," he said.
Fifty-six per cent of businesses said red tape had increased since the introduction of the act.
"There are a whole range of costs in terms of government interference and that also means a lot more paperwork," Mr Littleproud said.
But he said with Queenslanders sitting on more savings than ever before, he hoped they would open up their wallets to support Rose City businesses during the Christmas season.
