Blue Mountains News

The four-page document has been sent to thousands of businesses in the Blue Mountains to help build a snapshot of business conditions at a grassroots level as the community recovers from the drought, bushfires, floods and the COVID-19 pandemic.

Senator Payne said the survey was a fact-finding mission. 

“Our Government's economic plan relies on feedback from local businesses so that we can continue to respond in a tailored and proportionate way to address the challenges posed by COVID-19,” Senator Payne said.

“We know that every business, every industry and every township is different, and by gaining this additional insight, I can continue to raise key issues and challenges with government ministers. 

“Businesses are not just ABNs - they’re very much a part of the community. That’s why the survey asks questions about local issues, like the provision of CCTV, roads funding and tourism. 

“If there is something deterring customers or affecting business confidence, then I want to work with the community to deliver a solution.”  

The launch of the survey coincides with the introduction of tax cuts for small and family businesses, which came into effect from July 1.

“More than 5,000 businesses will see a reduction in their company tax rate from 27.5% to 26% this tax time,” Senator Payne said.

“Tax relief is a critical part of our economic plan because it leads to increased employment and investment opportunities which are absolute priorities during this COVID-19 crisis.

“Our tax cuts are in addition to other key support measures, such as the Instant Asset Write Off, which has been extended to $150,000 for another six months, and the Cash Flow Boost of up to $100,000 for employing small businesses.”

Businesses have started to receive the survey from this week (13 July). The survey can also be accessed online.