SIMON MOORE: Two developments in the energy system from recent weeks are particularly relevant to regional NSW.
COVID-19 Recovery & The Economy
POLICY INSIGHTS
Our Policy and Advocacy team is exposed to valuable information on a daily basis. Our Chief Economist and our Policy Managers leverage these insights to give you informed summaries and reasoned business analysis during a time of dangerous hyperbole and speculation.
SIMON MOORE: The current crisis creates an opening for governments to be more ambitious in energy efficiency policy than they have to date.
Put energy efficiency at heart of recovery
MARK FROST: While Govt. trade restrictions underscore weak business conditions, weak customer demand could prolong economic woes after COVID-19 restrictions are lifted.
Demand, the main recovery challenge
TIMOTHY BURT: In our new report we find the impacts of COVID-19 have been significant and risk leaving a lasting effect on business viability and future jobs.
CRUCIAL SUPPORT NEEDED FOR APPRENTICESHIPS
MARK FROST: Bold and essential reforms have been recommended as part of a crucial review into state finances. What do the recommended changes mean for business?
Tax reform accord with Thodey Review
TIMOTHY BURT: The NSW Govt. released the final report of the NSW Curriculum Review. Business NSW has been involved in the process since it began in 2018; now more than ever we need action on education reform.
WORK-READY SKILLS: CURRICULUM MUST EVOLVE
LIZ GREENWOOD: As complex as they are critical: We've simplified each key change to The Act to help keep your business safe
Massive changes in NSW WHS laws: Are you ready?
SIMON MOORE: The price reductions from the JEMENA gas networks should lead to drops of around 6 per cent. However, most small businesses will only benefit if energy retailers pass these cost savings on.
Gas price drop must flow to business owners
SIMON MOORE: It's the biggest overhaul since privatisation and while a two-sided energy market promises greener, cheaper electricity, it's going to get very complicated. Will it be twice as nice or double the trouble?
two-sided energy markets & your business
TIMOTHY BURT: For those RTOs experiencing financial hardship these advance payments should help maintain cash flow and retain valuable training and assessment staff.
PAYMENT RESTRUCTURING A BIG BONUS FOR TRAINERS
TIMOTHY BURT: Figures announced recently show the NSW Government’s initiative offering 21 fee-free TAFE courses has been a huge positive.
FEE-FREE TAFE COURSES
MARK FROST: Lockdown measures seem draconian but were needed to shock ourselves into a new way of living; so far, it's paid off. What challenges do policymakers face as we seek to reopen the economy?
Industry codes to limit risks and reopen the economy
MARK FROST: The world will be a very different place after COVID-19. While it is difficult to predict what that future looks like, we've given some thought to the likely opportunities and challenges that will arise.
After COVID-19: Opportunities and challenges
SIMON MOORE: National providers' response to COVID-19 and the current, known measures they are implementing which NSW businesses may be able to utilise.
Utilities - BUSINESS assistance available
MARK FROST: The impacts of COVID-19 are as broad and diverse as the State itself. With some businesses hurting more than others, the report illustrates the need for agility in the type of support offered to NSW businesses.
Business Conditions - target support for most affected
MARK FROST: A consequence of the PAYG-based subsidy’s design is that businesses which cannot continue to pay their staff will see very little or no support. A wage rebate will correct that.
A wage rebate to protect our economy
MARK FROST: Our members have expressed apprehension about the uncertainty associated with when the lockdown will end, and what it means for their business.
How we do our lockdown matters
MARK FROST: Protecting the viability of employers and their ability to retain staff is critical to Australia’s economic recovery.
ECONOMIC SHOCK
Mark Frost - Chief Economist
As Business NSW's Chief Economist, Mark is responsible for policy advice on economic matters. Mark has worked both in Government and as a representative of business and brings experience across range of policy areas.
Simon Moore - Policy Manager, Infrastructure
Business depends on infrastructure to give them energy, transport, telecoms & water. Simon is responsible for policy in these areas, which forutnatley he's well suited to, having worked on energy & environmental policy for organizations in the UK & Canada.
Elizabeth Greenwood - Policy Manager, Workers Compensation, WHS and Regulation
Liz's clout in advocating for businesses in relation to regulation, workers comp and WHS obligation comes from a career as a commercial litigator, insolvency accountant, and 16 years of policy & member servicing at HIA with SME's in tax and compliance.
Tim Burt - Policy Manager, Workforce Skills
Tim is responsible for policy advice on employment and education and training. Tim has worked in Government and the private sector including large and small businesses and brings significant experience in education and training and recruitment policy.
