Reducing costs and red tape for Nambucca Valley businesses could help support local jobs, encourage investment and strengthen the region’s economy, according to Member for Oxley Michael Kemp.
Kemp and NSW Nationals Leader and Shadow Minister for Small Business Gurmesh Singh met small business owners from across the valley this week to hear their concerns and ideas for policy changes.
Insurance costs, payroll tax, red tape and compliance requirements and high fuel prices were among the key pressures raised by local operators.
Kemp said addressing those challenges could give businesses more opportunities to grow, employ local people and invest money back into their communities.
“This forum was about more than just identifying problems. We also heard practical ideas and solutions from frontline business owners about how we can reduce unnecessary costs and cut red tape. This would allow local businesses more opportunities to invest, grow and employ more people.”
He said hearing directly from business owners was important in developing policies that reflected the needs of regional communities.
“You can’t develop good policy from behind a desk. As state representatives and policymakers, it’s incredibly important that we take the time to listen to the business owners and commit to exploring their home-grown solutions. It was really valuable to have that opportunity here in the Nambucca Valley.”
Kemp said issues and potential solutions raised during the forum would now be taken to the NSW Nationals party room to help inform policy development ahead of the March 2027 NSW election.
“This is just one part of an ongoing conversation with small businesses across Oxley. I’ve already held similar discussions in Kempsey and Urunga, and I’m looking forward to taking the same conversation to businesses across the Hastings Valley and Dorrigo/Bellingen areas.”
Like what you’re reading? Support North Coast Times by making a small contribution today and help us keep delivering local news paywall-free. Donate now