Craig Kelly (Hughes, Liberal Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I would like to send a thank you to the small businesses in my electorate of Hughes, especially those in the retail, hospitality and fast-food sectors. As Sir Robert Menzies said in his 'forgotten people' speech:

They are envied by those whose benefits are largely obtained by taxing them. They are not rich enough to have individual power … And yet, as I have said, they are the backbone of the nation.

And as Menzies warned, 'We shall destroy them at our peril.' Mr Speaker, look at what we are doing to them at the moment.

Dodgy union deals selling off penalty rates for union membership have put small business at a distinct competitive disadvantage on the weekend. We have forced Australian retailers to pay GST while giving exemptions to their foreign online retailers. While we talk of certainty for those pocketing benefits under the RET, what about certainty for the small baker, who has invested in his business, when he opens his electricity bill? Now, we have the Hazelwood Power Station closing down, which will push up the prices of electricity for small business even more.

This government understands those issues. We understand how important small business is to our nation. We will continue in this place to work every day to give small business a level playing field so that they can employ people and create wealth in this country.

Tony Smith (Speaker) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

In accordance with standing order 43, the time for members' statements has concluded.