Queensland leads nation for business confidence

Acting Treasurer Bill Byrne has welcomed the results of the latest National Australia Bank monthly business survey that again shows Queensland as equal leader for business confidence in July.

“Queensland and New South Wales recorded equal-highest position on trend business confidence, rated at +6 in July 2016, compared with the national average of +4 points,” Mr Byrne said.

“The NAB survey shows businesses continue to have confidence in the Queensland economy which is forecast to have the strongest growth in the nation this year. 

“Businesses recognise that the Palaszczuk Government is focused on boosting our state’s business sector to encourage growth, innovation, and job-creation.

“We’re supporting regional businesses through initiatives such as our $100 million Back to Work regional jobs program which will support up to 8,000 jobs for Queenslanders.

“We’ve doubled our payroll tax incentive for Queensland businesses that employ apprentices and trainees. This is making it even more attractive for employers to hire and keep apprentices and trainees and grow their businesses.

“We’re also delivering our Advancing Small Business Queensland Strategy to help small business start, grow and employ,” Mr Byrne said.

“In addition we have launched the Queensland First Home Owner’s Grant of $20,000 available for a year from 1 July — that’s $5,000 higher than usual.

“The grant will not only help people buy their first home, but because it is designed for newly constructed dwellings it will also stimulate the building industry and help secure existing jobs or create new ones.”

Queensland’s trend business conditions index rose to +7 points, recording the strongest improvement of the mainland states.

ENDS

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