I’ll admit, I try to sit on the fence when it comes to politics. However, I always lean towards the side that supports small businesses—those who face real challenges yet form the backbone of our economy and communities. So when I had the pleasure of sitting down with Peter Dutton today, I was keen to see where he stood on these issues.
I must say, he struck me as genuinely committed to supporting our nation’s small businesses. It’s heartening to see such dedication, especially considering that small enterprises make up 97.2% of all Australian businesses and employ approximately 42% of the private sector workforce. With such an enormous impact on our economy and communities, the small business sector truly deserves more attention and support.
Our discussion delved into the myriad challenges small business owners face in the current economic climate. Rising operational costs, navigating complex regulations, and the ever-evolving digital landscape are just a few hurdles that keep many of us on our toes. I shared anecdotes from fellow entrepreneurs who often feel like they’re running on a treadmill that keeps speeding up. It’s not just about keeping pace—it’s about staying afloat, let alone thriving.
Peter listened intently, showing a genuine understanding of these issues and an interest in finding practical solutions. We talked about the need for streamlined processes, reduced red tape, and more targeted support for workforce upskilling. His sincerity left me cautiously optimistic that change is possible when leaders truly engage with the sector.
On a lighter note, I joked about how small business owners are some of the most resourceful people out there—juggling roles as CEO, marketer, tech support, and sometimes even courier. Peter laughed, admitting that their resilience and determination are nothing short of inspiring.
At the end of the day, it’s conversations like these that matter. Bridging the gap between policymakers and the hardworking entrepreneurs on the ground is how we can create meaningful change. With leaders like The Hon. Peter Dutton MP showing a willingness to listen and engage, it was good to see many local including the politicians and candidates with good representation from the City of Kamaunda Council. Linda Reynolds and Matt Moran hopeful for a future where small businesses not only survive but thrive.
