“Industry congratulates Jacinta Allan on being chosen by her party to become the next Premier of Victoria,” Tim Piper, Victorian Head of the peak employer association Ai Group, said today.
“Ms Allan has been in Parliament for almost half her life and is an experienced campaigner who is well versed on what to expect in the top job. We have worked very well with the new Premier in the numerous portfolios she has held and believe that this positive relationship is likely to continue.
“We hope she will be a listening Premier. She has always understood that the state needs to work closely with business, encourage and attract new investment, and provide positive incentives to enable businesses to remain in the State.
“The new Premier’s first job should be to work with the Treasurer to reconsider the State’s budget strategy which has left Victoria with the worst debt burden of all the states and territories. This will help to generate confidence in the community.
“There will also be an opportunity to reconsider priorities in infrastructure based on timing, prioritisation, funding, while recognising ongoing skill shortages and community needs.
“Business also feels that it is stifled by increasing costs and regulations. This image must be changed to ensure that employment and growth are first order activities.
“We also congratulate the new Deputy Premier, Ben Carroll, who is well known to Ai Group and industry. His role as Deputy Premier will be vital in helping ensure the business community is given every opportunity to flourish.
“We look forward to working with the new Premier and her team as she looks to make a fresh start in getting Victoria back on track,” Mr Piper said.
