Business SA unveils Government scorecard
22 November 2011
A bold scorecard analysing the performance of the State Government has been released today, in the first of its kind, from the State’s leading business membership organisation, Business SA.
The Charter Scorecard analyses and scores the State Government’s performance against the recommendations outlined in Business SA’s A Charter for a Prosperous South Australia, which was released in the lead-up to the March 2010 State Election.
Developed in consultation with Business SA’s members, the Charter outlined key recommendations for the State’s economic sustainability over the next decade and beyond.
The Scorecard assesses the Government’s performance and progress against the recommendations with a score out of 10. The recommendations fall under 13 key areas which impact the business community.
Business SA Chief Executive Officer, Peter Vaughan, said it was a timely occasion to release the Scorecard.
“It is over 18 months since the last State Election and it is important to acknowledge the work the Government has done and what is still left to do,” Mr Vaughan said.
“We have a new Premier, with a new cabinet, who will no doubt be looking to implement change and encourage strong growth in the economy before the next election.
“The recommendations in the Charter targeted crucial issues that will ultimately drive the State’s long-term economic prosperity.
“This is the first time that Business SA has scored the performance of any State Government and this Scorecard highlights the issues that are impacting on confidence and competitiveness.
“Having a supportive and competitive business environment will provide the vibrancy to generate employment, economic growth and income for all South Australians.”
Both the State Government and Opposition provided responses to each of the recommendations before the 2010 State Election.
The recommendations that the Government disagreed with, and where no progress has been made, have been excluded from the analysis.
The recommendations were grouped and scored under the following areas:
Taxation – score 3/10
“We are yet to get serious about increasing growth, encouraging employment and attracting investment by providing South Australia with a more competitive business tax system.”
Business Assistance – score 7/10
“Changes to shop trading hours have been a major step forward for the business community, however red tape, duplication of services and business support issues must be improved.”
Export Assistance – score 6/10
“It is essential that we encourage more local businesses to enter export markets and a competitive local business environment is essential for sustained international success.”
Workplace Relations – score 6/10
“While there remains concern with aspects of the current WHS legislation, the Government has been active in the harmonising of key workplace relations legislation.”
Skills and Workforce Development – score 5/10
“The local and national economy will always rely on a highly skilled and educated workforce and reform, as outlined in the Skills for All report, must be implemented for the State’s future.”
Governance – score 6/10
“South Australia is over-governed which adds to costs and taxation. We have long called for the reform of the Legislative Council and there remains issues with the number of local councils. However, reform in the public service is heading in the right direction.”
Population and Migration – score 5/10
“Increasing our population targets is essential in addressing our skill shortages and ageing population issues and migration has a very important role to play in this.”
30 Year Plan for Greater Adelaide – score 6/10
“We welcome the 30 Year Plan and now it is essential to allocate the necessary resources to ensure that a growing population is accommodated, adequate infrastructure is built and a business friendly environment is established.”
Infrastructure – score 6/10
“Infrastructure is an important driver of economic growth and improved infrastructure, from the Southern Expressway to critical CBD development, such as the Adelaide Oval, will accommodate and drive a growing population.”
Water – score 5/10
“It is time that the Commonwealth and State Governments treated the Murray-Darling system as one. Access to affordable and high quality water is vital for businesses and the security of water supply, outside of the River Murray system, must continue to be improved.”
Energy – score 6/10
“South Australia should lead the world in low emissions energy, such as renewable and nuclear. Initiatives must be put in place to address the rising energy costs which are having a direct impact on business competitiveness.”
Climate Change – score 5/10
“While minimising the impact of climate change is very important, we should only commit to efforts that are comparative with major trading partners and take into account economic circumstances.”
Waste – score 4/10
“We’d like to see more appropriate waste management initiatives that encourage growth in this industry.
“The Scorecard is an ongoing assessment and we will hold the Government to account for the full electoral cycle with another review in the lead up to the 2014 State Election.”
Access the complete Charter Scorecard.
