Member for Port Macquarie, Robert Dwyer is encouraging residents to support local businesses this Small Business Month, while highlighting the growing pressures facing employers under the Labor Government.
Mr Dwyer said small businesses are the engine room of the local economy, creating jobs, supporting community organisations and keeping regional communities strong.
"Small businesses are at the heart of the Port Macquarie electorate and across the Mid North Coast. Every dollar spent locally helps support local jobs, local families and our local economy," Mr Dwyer said.
"While I encourage everyone to shop local this October and in fact every month, supporting small business also means creating an environment where businesses can succeed and grow."
Mr Dwyer said business confidence has fallen dramatically under Labor, with rising costs, red tape and taxes placing enormous pressure on operators.
"More than 6,200 NSW businesses have closed their doors this year and confidence has fallen to record lows under the Labor Government."
"The NSW Small Business Commissioner's latest Momentum Survey paints a concerning picture, with only six per cent of businesses expecting profitability to improve and almost 70 per cent worried about their future."
Mr Dwyer said local business owners are telling him they are finding it harder than ever to manage increasing costs and plan for the future.
"Business owners want certainty and they want a government that understands the challenges they face every day."
"Businesses create jobs, train apprentices and invest in our communities. They should be encouraged to grow, not burdened with more taxes and charges."
Mr Dwyer said the NSW Liberals and Nationals are committed to delivering significant payroll tax relief to help businesses invest, employ more staff and restore confidence across the state.
"If we want stronger communities and more local jobs, we need to back the people who take the risk of running a business. That's exactly what the Liberals and Nationals will do."
Small Business Month runs throughout October, providing an opportunity for residents to support the local businesses that help drive our local economy.
Media Contact: Terry Sara 6584 0977 or 0409 834 648
