As a member, Committee for Echuca Moama chair Dr Catherine Lees said the survey collected data from the members of chambers across rural and regional Victoria.
‘‘The results of this survey clearly indicate the pressure that businesses in regional and rural Victoria are facing,’’ she said.
‘‘It is imperative that the Victorian Government finds ways to make doing business more affordable and accessible.’’
The survey showed only 55 per cent of businesses were drawing a living wage.
‘‘Clearly, this is not sustainable,’’ Dr Lees said.
“Small businesses are being crushed under operational costs, compliance management and taxes.’’
One of the respondents said ‘‘it is no longer viable to do business in Victoria’’, while another said ‘‘I’ve got 30 years’ experience in our industry, and this is the toughest it’s ever been and, unfortunately, only looks to be getting worse.’’
The survey highlighted the frustrations of business owners around tax reform, red tape, insurance and WorkCover, utility costs, the cost to employ staff and the crippling competition from large corporations and international companies.
‘‘Respondents are sick of this government’s city-centric attitude,’’ Dr Lees said.
‘‘This report is a wake-up call. If we want thriving communities, we must ensure our small businesses are not just surviving, but flourishing. That starts with meaningful reform and genuine engagement from government.’’
Submissions were received from a variety of businesses across all sectors throughout the state.
It is hoped the results will help legislative bodies and relevant industry understand the unique challenges of doing business in rural and regional Victoria.
The report was raised in parliament in early October by state Member for Western Victoria Bev McArthur, calling on the government to respond in detail to the points made in the survey.
To view the report, visit commerceballarat.com.au/resources
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