Candidates in the Victorian State Election must consider their commitment to small business in the lead up to this election, the Victorian Automobile Chamber of Commerce (VACC) said today.

VACC is calling on the next State Government to adopt recommendations made in its submission to politicians from all major parties in the lead-up to the election.

VACC represents 5300 members from the automotive industry, ranging from car and motorcycle dealers to mechanics, apprentices, smash repairers and independent petrol station operators.

VACC Executive Director, David Purchase, said the submission was developed to give the politicians a clear list of key demands for an improved environment for small businesses in the retail automotive industry.

“We call on the next Government for a strong commitment to small business, a willingness to listen, and action on these key demands,” Mr Purchase said.

Mr Purchase said VACC had identified 13 key recommendations to improve the industry for both its members and Victorian consumers.

These include:

• Increasing funding for the Office of the Small Business Commissioner
• Establishing an Office of Regulation
• Disconnecting land tax from property values
• Eliminating pay roll tax
• Reducing new motor vehicle stamp duty
• Applying an “effects-test” to competition policy
• Increasing funding for trade training
• Applying the OH&S Act to work vehicles
• Implementing the Ombudsman’s recommendations for a Victorian vehicle registration database
• Handing back GST collected on petrol excise
• Amending the Motor Car Traders Act to keep pace with modern trading technology
• Changing motorcycle and scooter licensing laws
• Extending the Melbourne Exhibition Centre

“We need a Government that is prepared to act to support small business, prepared to work to ensure a fair trading environment, and prepared to examine its own practices and policies and the contribution they make to business risk,” Mr Purchase said.