80% of issues raised through Red Tape Portal addressed, but businesses say ongoing dialogue is essential to maintain momentum.
Devonport Chamber of Commerce & Industry (DCCI) hosted a Red Tape Roundtable on Wednesday 22 July with the Deputy Premier The Hon Guy Barnett, Minister for Small Business, Trade and Consumer Affairs, and the Red Tape Coordinator, Stuart Clues, from the Office of the Coordinator General, with local small businesses and community leaders using the session to press the case for faster, more practical reform of the regulatory barriers affecting business productivity and growth in the region.
In a pleasing update for members, the roundtable heard that 80% of red tape matters previously submitted via the Red Tape Reduction Portal have been addressed, a strong signal that the process is delivering real results. However, members highlighted a range of ongoing issues that continue to add cost, complexity and frustration for business operators.
Examples raised during the roundtable included the requirement for manual duplicate copies of electrical compliance certificates, barriers to growth arising from the current regional land use strategy, inconsistencies in liquor licensing requirements between established venues, and outdated transport licensing arrangements which are no longer fit-for-purpose.
DCCI President Mrs Claire Connelly said the progress achieved to date was encouraging but reinforced the need for reform efforts to continue.
“The roundtable was a positive and productive discussion. At the same time, attendees shared several issues that continue to create unnecessary costs and inefficiencies for businesses across our region. The examples raised weren’t theoretical policy questions, they were practical issues affecting businesses every day. Every unnecessary form, duplicated process or outdated regulation comes at a cost. It takes time away from serving customers, investing in growth, creating jobs and contributing to our local economy.
“Reducing red tape isn’t about removing important safeguards. It’s about making sure regulation is fit-for-purpose, efficient and focused on achieving outcomes rather than creating unnecessary administrative burden. Mrs Connelly said.
Industry research consistently shows that regulatory compliance imposes substantial costs on Australian businesses, particularly small and medium enterprises, with business owners often spending significant time each week managing administrative and reporting obligations rather than focusing on customers, investment and business growth.
One of the strongest messages from the discussion was the value of ongoing dialogue. Businesses want the opportunity to regularly meet with decision-makers, raise emerging issues and work collaboratively on solutions before problems become barriers to growth. Progress achieved to date is encouraging, but our members want to see more reform, faster.
Attendees welcomed the constructive approach taken by both the Deputy Premier and the Red Tape Coordinator and strongly supported the establishment of a more regular forum for engagement on regulatory reform.
Momentum like this doesn’t sustain itself, it must be deliberately maintained. That’s why we encourage every business with a red tape issue, big or small, to make their voice heard through the portal at www.cg.tas.gov.au/supporting_business/red_tape_reduction. The more real, practical examples we put in front of government, the stronger the case for change.
Mrs Connelly said “DCCI is committed to working with the Deputy Premier’s office, the Office of the Coordinator General and other relevant representatives to establish this as an annual forum. One conversation is a good start, but it’s the regular, ongoing dialogue that will keep the focus on outcomes and make sure these conversations turn into lasting reform,”
DCCI will continue to advocate for reforms that support investment, jobs and business growth while working closely with relevant representatives and stakeholders to establish a more regular mechanism for ongoing business consultation.
ENDS
Media Contact: Claire Connelly, President | M: 0439 982 880 | E: president@dcci.org.au
About the Devonport Chamber of Commerce & Industry (DCCI). DCCI is the peak business organisation for the Devonport region, dedicated to supporting and promoting businesses in Devonport and surrounds. Through advocacy, networking, professional development, and a range of initiatives and programs, DCCI fosters economic growth, innovation and collaboration across the local business community.
