ACCI launches service sector review

Australia’s large small business service sector needs to speak with a louder voice in the battle for government and community support, a spokesman for Australia’s peak business lobby says.

The Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry yesterday launched an audit into Australia’s service economy. ACCI trade director Daniel Tehan says most people are unaware that the sector makes up around 80% of the nation’s economy and is a key engine room for jobs.

“The manufacturing, agriculture and mining sectors have been very good at defining and representing themselves; the services sector has probably let itself down in that regard,” Tehan says.

The audit will attempt to take a comprehensive snapshot of the services industry and examine measures that can be taken to strengthen both the local and export components of the sector.

The ACCI has decided to push ahead with the review on its own after the Rudd Government declined to contribute funding because of budgetary constraints.

But Tehan says the ACCI was not disappointed by the Government’s refusal to provide funds.

“I’ve got a strong view that the sector has to act if it wants to be taken seriously. If we think we’re important, let’s put in the time and try and work with Government, not just harp,” Tehan says.