Big business is angry that the Abbott government is proposing to make anti-competitive behaviour by them more difficult. New laws would restrict big businesses from abusing their market power. Small Business Minister Bruce Billson has hit back saying big business is talking “utter nonsense”. We agree.
Just recently, Coles had to refund $12m to 200 suppliers due to unconscionable conduct by Coles. And the competition regulator (ACCC) is finally responding to evidence of big business cartels in the construction industry. What’s odd is that unions and Labor seem be lining up with big business on this.
And we’re fairly happy with the government’s Small Business Ombudsman Bill. The important thing is that small business people will have access to dispute mediation if they are in dispute with a big business or a government department. In our submission to the Senate review we’re asking for stronger powers so that mediation:
- is compulsory for Commonwealth agencies;
- is required before legal proceedings are taken;
- services are low cost; and
- attendance is compulsory.
In Estonia it takes two minutes and five clicks to complete an online tax return. In addition, Estonians can do the following online: set up businesses, sign contracts, obtain prescriptions, manage pensions, apply for visas and even vote. Ah well—we can but dream about such efficiency in Australia!
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