Running a small business is challenging enough without governments making life unnecessarily harder. Between rising costs, staffing pressures and compliance obligations, business owners already have plenty on their plates.
That's why governments must listen to the people who actually run businesses before imposing new rules.
The NSW Labor Government's extraordinary backflip on coffee cup regulations is a case in point.
Under legislation recently passed by Parliament, cafés faced requirements to offer reusable cups through a mandatory scheme, without being able to charge customers for the service.
A café operator who failed to offer a reusable cup could have faced a fine of up to $22,000.
Reducing plastic waste is a sensible objective. But who pays for cups that aren't returned? Who collects and washes them? And how are cafés expected to absorb these costs?
The Coalition recognised these problems and moved amendments to remove the mandatory scheme, exempt small businesses and allow them to recover costs. Labor rejected every amendment.
Then, just days after the legislation passed, following an outcry from small businesses, the Government announced it would abandon the requirements.
It's a welcome reversal, but why did it take a public backlash to recognise these obvious problems?
Small business owners understand their customers, costs and daily operating realities. Their experience should inform government decisions from the outset, not simply be heard after criticism forces a rethink.
Whether it's planning approvals, licensing or environmental regulations, the cumulative impact of government decisions on small businesses deserves greater attention.
Chatswood's diverse business community creates jobs, supports our local economy and gives our town centre its vitality. These businesses need government to be a partner, not another obstacle.
I'll continue advocating for practical, proportionate regulation and a stronger voice for small business.
Please contact my office at
[email protected] to share your experiences or let me know how I can assist.
Tim James MP
Member for Willoughby
Shadow Minister for Fair Trading, Work Health and Safety and Building
Shadow Special Minister of State
Shadow Minister for Veterans