AUSTRALIAN CHAMBER ANNUAL REPORT AND BUSINESS REVIEW 2017

CONTENTS

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE 3 CEO’S MESSAGE 5 AUSTRALIAN CHAMBER MEMBERSHIP NETWORK 8 NATIONAL SECRETARIAT 13 GOVERNANCE 15 OUR BOARD 17 STRATEGIC PLAN 2017–2020 18 GENERAL COUNCIL MEETINGS 19 POLICY COMMITTEE CHAIRS 20 TOP 10 IN 10 22 SUBMISSIONS 23 MEDIA AND CAMPAIGNS 25 ECONOMICS, INDUSTRY AND SUSTAINABILITY 27 WORKPLACE RELATIONS 29 WORKPLACE HEALTH AND SAFETY 30 EDUCATION, EMPLOYMENT AND TRAINING 31 TRADE AND INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS 32 AUSTRALIAN CHAMBER - TOURISM 34 BIZ BETTER TOGETHER 35 2016 EXPORT AWARDS 37 MEMBER BENEFITS 38 AUSTRALIAN CHAMBER EVENTS 39

Chamber Annual Report and Editors Design Business Review 2017 Sarah Hope 3 Degrees Marketing Published by the Australian Manager, Membership & Marketing 3dm.com.au Commerce of Commerce and E: [email protected] No part of this publication may be Industry Amy Keenan reproduced in any manner or form 24 Brisbane Avenue Manager, Media & Campaigns without written permission from the BARTON ACT 2600 E: [email protected] Australian Chamber. P: 02 6270 8000 www.acci.asn.au ISBN 9780646534091 PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

THIS HAS BEEN AN EXTRAORDINARY YEAR, In a recent address to a member lunch with the Leader of BOTH NATIONALLY AND GLOBALLY AS the Opposition, we acknowledged that there were a number WE SEE WHAT WE ONCE REGARDED AS of issues on which we currently stand apart including: NORMAL ECONOMIC PRACTICE UNDERGO SIGNIFICANT CHANGE. • the reduction of penalty rates in several awards;

• allowing employers and employees to negotiate There was a time when the word “disruption” was used workplace arrangements; fleetingly, but now it impacts upon us daily. Our entire membership is affected by this turbulence. • reducing the company tax rate to 25 per cent for all businesses; and As our nation’s leading business organisation, we increasingly need to accept the challenges that come with • the reintroduction of the Australian Building this pace of change. Our task is made the more difficult & Construction Commission. by the political uncertainties that impact on our policy positioning. However there are issues upon which we must all agree. We need an environment that encourages job creation and Within this changing scenario, it is the responsibility of we need policies that sustain and grow Australian business. the Chamber movement to remain relevant and credible. We continue to achieve this through our robust policy There is an absolute need for governments, current and development processes and approaches to all political future, to acknowledge that four out of five jobs are representatives. created by the private sector. We maintain that business is the engine room of the economy and we will continue It is our role to continually emphasise the concerns of our to advocate for governments to involve business in policy membership and reinforce policy issues that we regard as development. essential to the economic wellbeing of our members and our nation.

3 “It is our role to continually emphasise the concerns of our membership and reinforce policy issues that we regard as essential to the economic wellbeing of our members and our nation.”

Prior to the 2016 Federal election, we launched our Top 10 It has not always been an easy journey but we have in 10, promoting 10 steps for a more competitive Australia. attempted to provide a structure which encourages robust We acknowledge that a number of the recommendations participation. have been implemented by government. To my fellow directors, I offer my appreciation for the However, we are now being overtaken by an issue of great encouragement that you have provided. significance that was not on the agenda in 2016. To James Pearson and the staff at Australian Chamber, Energy pricing and reliability has come to the forefront your commitment and professionalism is the reason for our AND BUSINESS REVIEW 2017 of our concerns with a number of members issuing dire growing success. warnings of job losses and business relocation off shore. We have been reminded by Rod Sims of the ACCC that this There are many who need be acknowledged but I would is a critical and urgent matter requiring cooperation from all like to single out Rozanne Crawford, our outgoing company political parties and governments of all levels. secretary for her loyalty and contribution over her 35 years of service. We can assure our members that the strength of our advocacy will grow. Our membership network increases I leave this role with the knowledge that our members, board through growing state chambers, our increasing association and staff will continue to build and sustain cohesive and membership and the growing Business Leaders Council. efficient advocacy that amplifies the voice of business and ensures a thriving economy for the good of all Australians. Our secretariat has a number of new recruits and is now at full strength. We are also seeking to increase our influence Terry Wetherall ANNUAL REPORT AUSTRALIAN CHAMBER through a national offering of membership and services. President

As my Presidency closes I would like to thank all of you for the support you have shown the Australian Chamber.

4 CEO’S MESSAGE

THE AUSTRALIAN CHAMBER CONTINUES Organisation and I was appointed to the Management TO GROW AS A STRONG AND INFLUENTIAL Board of the International Organisation of Employers. We VOICE AT HOME AND ABROAD. continued to make the case at home and abroad for free trade and workplace flexibility, including working with the Domestically, we scored important wins in the first 12 International Chamber of Commerce and other global months of the 45th Parliament. Company tax cuts have business and policy groups, including the Organisation been legislated for businesses with turnovers of up to for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), to $50 million, the Australian Building and Construction remove regulatory burdens and accelerate cross-border Commission was reinstated, the 2017 Federal Budget trade. allocated $1.5 billion for 300,000 new apprenticeships and traineeships over the next four years and the Businesses—small, medium and large—continue to government planned to reduce its spend to less than 25 join the Australian Chamber. In the past 12 months, there per cent of gross domestic product (GDP). has been 36 per cent growth in the membership of our Business Leaders Council, with the number of member We recommended these moves in our Top 10 in 10 companies increasing from 36 to 49. The number of manifesto at the 2016 federal election. national industry association members of the Australian Chamber has also grown. Over the past decade, Australia has slipped to 21st on the Global Competitiveness Index, a measure of a We held 43 networking events giving members exclusive nation’s ability to deliver prosperity to its citizens. Our access to federal politicians, department officials and manifesto sets out the path for how we are going to other policy makers in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. regain a top 10 position in 10 years and the delivery of The events remain one of our most important and high levels of prosperity to all Australians. International popular member services. competitiveness remains the key to success. Our General Council met three times over the past year Internationally, it has been a big year as well. Our new in Canberra, Hobart and Brisbane. I thank our Chamber Workplace Relations Director, Scott Barklamb, was hosts for making us welcome and sharing local business elected to the Governing Body of the International Labour insights.

5 “In the past 12 months, there has been 36 per cent growth in the membership of our Business Leaders Council.”

In its first year, Australian Chamber - Tourism reaped There have been some key changes in our national significant benefits for business. In late 2016, the team. We farewelled friends and colleagues and government announced changes to tax rates for people welcomed new ones. In response to increasing demand on working holiday visas. Australian Chamber - Tourism from members, we’ve rebuilt our policy and advocacy commissioned research by Lateral Economics was capabilities and strengthened our membership and influential in resolving the matter in a way that minimised business development arms. harm to tourism businesses. I thank the Board and our members for their continued

In April, the government announced changes to the support and guidance and look forward to growing our AND BUSINESS REVIEW 2017 skilled migration program, including reducing the number voice and influence over the coming 12 months. of eligible occupations, which had a negative impact on business. The Australian Chamber has been working with James Pearson the government to correct the balance and, as a result, a Chief Executive Officer number of occupations were relisted.

At the Fair Work Commission, we supported the case for a reduction in Sunday penalty rates and represented employers during the annual wage review process. The Commission invited the Australian Chamber to make submissions on a number of key areas, including cases

looking at unfair dismissal laws and the ‘better off overall ANNUAL REPORT AUSTRALIAN CHAMBER test’ underpinning enterprise agreement making.

This is just a sample of our advocacy work and results over the past 12 months.

We continue to build our presence in traditional and social media and have strengthened this area significantly over the past year.

6 “Our members are essential to our success. The Australian Chamber is the largest and most representative business network in the country. It is our members who make us strong, credible and heard.” James Pearson

7 AUSTRALIAN CHAMBER MEMBERSHIP NETWORK

THE AUSTRALIAN CHAMBER IS AUSTRALIA’S LARGEST AND MOST REPRESENTATIVE BUSINESS ASSOCIATION, COMPRISING STATE AND TERRITORY CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE AND NATIONAL INDUSTRY ASSOCIATIONS. WE SPEAK ON BEHALF OF THE AUSTRALIAN BUSINESS COMMUNITY AT HOME AND ABROAD.

Australian Chamber member Boards, CEOs and staff use Our Business Leaders Council provides a platform for their organisation’s membership to better inform themselves individual businesses to get involved in our activities. on policy matters and shape economic and social policy. AND BUSINESS REVIEW 2017

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY MEMBERS

Business SA Chamber of Commerce Chamber of Commerce and Industry Queensland Northern Territory AUSTRALIAN CHAMBER ANNUAL REPORT ANNUAL REPORT AUSTRALIAN CHAMBER

Tasmanian Chamber of Canberra Business Chamber of Commece and Commerce and Industry Chamber Industry Western Australia

NSW Business Chamber Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry

8 AUSTRALIAN CHAMBER MEMBERSHIP NETWORK

INDUSTRY ASSOCIATION MEMBERS

Accord - Hygiene, Cosmetic & Air Conditioning & Mechanical Animal Medicines Australia Association of Financial Association of Independent Specialty Products Industry Contractors’ Association Advisors Schools of NSW

Australia Arab Chamber of Australian Automotive Australian Australian Dental Australian Dental Industry Commerce & Industry Dealer Association Beverages Council Association Association

Australian Federation of Australian Gift & Homewares Australian Hotels Australian Institute of Credit Australian Made Campaign Employers & Industries Association Association Management Limited

Australian Meat Processor Australian Mines & Metals Australian Mobile Australian Paint Manufacturers’ Australian Recording Industry Corporation Association Telecommunications Association Federation Association Ltd

Australian Restructuring Australian Retailers Australian Self Australian Steel Australian Tourism Industry Insolvency & Turnaround Association Medication Industry Institute Council Association

The Australian Veterinary Boating Industry Bus Industry Business Council of Caravan Industry Association Association Confederation Co-operatives and Mutuals Association

9 INDUSTRY ASSOCIATION MEMBERS (cont.)

Cement Concrete & Chemistry Australia Chiropractors’ Association Concrete Masonry Consult Australia Aggregates Australia of Australia Association of Australia

Council of Private Higher Cruise Lines International Customer Owned Banking Direct Selling Australia Exhibition & Event Education Association Association Association of Australasia AND BUSINESS REVIEW 2017

Financial Planning Fitness Australia Franchisee Federation Housing Industry Large Format Retail Association of Australia Australia Association Association

Live Performance Australia Master Builders Australia Master Plumbers Medical Technology Medicines Australia &Mechanical Services Association of Australia

Association of Australia ANNUAL REPORT AUSTRALIAN CHAMBER

National Automotive National Disability Services National Electrical National Employment National Fire Industry Leasing & Salary Packaging and Communications Service Association Association Association Association

National Retail Association National Roads and NORA NSW Hire Car Association NSW Taxi Outdoor Media Association Motorists’ Association Council

10 AUSTRALIAN CHAMBER MEMBERSHIP NETWORK

INDUSTRY ASSOCIATION MEMBERS (cont.)

The Pharmacy Guild of Phonographic Performance Printing Industries Recruitment & Consulting Restaurant & Catering Australia Company of Australia Association of Australia Services Association Australia

Roofi ng Tile Association of Screen Producers Australia The Tax Institute Think Brick Australia Victorian Automobile Australia Chamber of Commerce

BUSINESS LEADERS COUNCIL MEMBERS

Airbnb Allied Express American Express Archerfi eld Capital Partners Argus TrueID

Australian Hearing BRI Ferrier Brown & Chase Campbell Page Certica

Citrus Group City Tattersalls Club Commonwealth Bank Corrs Chambers Crown Resorts Limited Westgarth Lawyers

11 BUSINESS LEADERS COUNCIL MEMBERS (cont.)

Designer Rugs DXC Technology Dymocks Employers Mutual Football Federation Australia

Google Heart Foundation Interact Injury Management Investec Isentia AND BUSINESS REVIEW 2017

IVE Group Australia JLL Kingsway Australia Laureate International MasterCard Universities

NetLinkz Pfi zer PremierState ResMed Samsung

Sanofi Sensis Southern Cross Group SPAR Australia Sydney Airport Services ANNUAL REPORT AUSTRALIAN CHAMBER

Telstra Thales Australia The GEO Group The Star Entertainment Thorn Group Group

Uber Universal Business School Visa Vodafone Sydney

12 NATIONAL SECRETARIAT (AS AT SEPTEMBER 2017)

CEO Offi ce Corporate Affairs

James Pearson Lee-Anne Dean Rozanne Crawford Kathryn Lee Kaisi Chen Chief Execuitve Offi cer Executive Assistant to the Company Secretary, Financial Controller Finance Offi cer CEO & Offi ce Manager Director of Corporate Services

Business Development, Membership, Marketing and Communications Buisness Leaders Council

Jamie Crain Sarah Hope Zoe Callaghan Tom Stobo Paul Nicolaou Nerida Pearson Director, Business Manager, Membership Communications and International Business Director, Australian Consultant Development and Marketing Events Coordinator Support Offi cer Chamber Business Leaders Council

Productivity Administrative Support

Sarah McGregor Amanda Ogilvie Liz Wheatley Haidee Whiteley Steve Hatzis Senior Manager, Senior Content Administration and Contract Manager, Biz Administration Assistant Business Coordinator Events Coordinator Better Together Engagement

13 THE AUSTRALIAN CHAMBER’S NATIONAL SECRETARIAT DELIVERS THE CHAMBER’S DAY-TO-DAY ACTIVITIES ON BEHALF OF MEMBERS. TEAM MEMBERS ARE BASED IN CANBERRA, MELBOURNE, SYDNEY AND PERTH.

Employment, Education and Training Workplace Relations

Jenny Lambert Dargan Pearson Scott Barklamb Alana Matheson Dick Grozier Director, Employment Policy Adviser Director, Workplace Deputy Director, Associate Director, Education and Training Relations Workplace Relations Workplace Relations AND BUSINESS REVIEW 2017 Director, Tourism

Economics and Industry Trade and International Affairs

Adam Carr Daniel Popovski Bryan Clark Director, Economics and National Adviser, Director, Trade and Industry Policy Economics and Industry International Affairs

Policy ANNUAL REPORT AUSTRALIAN CHAMBER

Workplace Health and Safety Sustainability Media and Campaigns

Jennifer Low Joe Doleschal-Ridnell Michael Smith Ari Sharp Associate Director, National Policy Adviser Director, Media and Senior Manager Media Workplace Health and Campaigns (incoming) Safety

14 “Our vision is to make Australia the best place in the world to do business—so that Australians have the jobs, living standards and opportunities to which they GOVERNANCE aspire.”

THE AUSTRALIAN CHAMBER IS A Business Leaders Council NOT-FOR-PROFIT MEMBERSHIP-BASED ORGANISATION. MEMBERSHIP COMPRISES The Business Leaders Council offers a platform for individual STATE AND TERRITORY CHAMBERS OF businesses to participate in Australian Chamber activities. It COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY, AND NATIONAL offers a forum to network, share ideas and engage with INDUSTRY ASSOCIATIONS. political and business decision makers, influencers and regulators. Our Vision Board Our vision is to make Australia the best place in the world The Board is responsible for corporate governance, to do business—so that Australians have the jobs, living monitoring performance and strategic direction. standards and opportunities to which they aspire. An Executive Management Group, an Audit and Risk General Council Committee, a Remuneration Committee and a Service General Council determines policy on current issues, Awards Committee are in place. These Committees operate which provides a mandate for advocacy on matters of under Charters approved by the Board. importance to the business community. It is advised by Office Bearers are elected by members at the Annual policy committees and working parties that meet between General Meeting. At the 2016 Annual General Meeting, Council meetings. Terry Wetherall from NSW Business Chamber was re- Senior office-bearers and executives from the Australian elected President and Jeremy Johnson from the Victorian Chamber’s member organisations, the Australian Chamber Chamber of Commerce and Industry was re-elected Deputy Board and senior members of staff attend General Council. President.

General Council usually meets three times each year, on a Executive Management Group national rotating basis. During the past year General Council The Executive Management Group (EMG) provides support met in Canberra in November 2016, Hobart in March 2017 to the Board in achieving objectives identified in the and in Brisbane in July 2017. Strategic Plan and developing a strong national chamber Terry Wetherall is Chair of General Council. movement. The EMG consists of the CEOs of state and territory chambers of commerce and industry.

James Pearson is Chair.

15 The external auditor makes an annual declaration of independence.

A policy of rotation of audit partners is in place. This is the second year that the current audit partner has been responsible for the audit.

The Committee met with KPMG during the annual review process, without management present. KPMG attends the AND BUSINESS REVIEW 2017 Annual General Meeting to address any member questions.

Company Secretary Rozanne Crawford acts as Committee Audit and Risk Committee Secretary.

The Audit and Risk Committee monitors the management Remuneration Committee of operational and business risks and advises the Board on The Remuneration Committee ensures remuneration corporate governance. arrangements for senior executives support our achievement The Committee ensures the reliability of financial reports, of our strategic objectives and the recruitment, motivation reviews the effectiveness of the external audit and internal and retention of senior executives. controls, and oversees our investments.

Terry Wetherall is Chair. Rozanne Crawford acts as ANNUAL REPORT AUSTRALIAN CHAMBER Committee members are drawn from the Board, with a Committee Secretary. Chair selected from among the committee members. Service Awards Committee Jeremy Johnson is Chair, and Terry Wetherall, Peter Hood, The Service Awards Committee considers potential James Pearson and Steve Knott are members of the candidates for an Award to formally recognise exceptional Committee. service to the Australian Chamber and its members. KPMG provides independent audit services and has verified Peter Hood is Chair. Rozanne Crawford acts as Committee that the annual accounts provide a true and fair picture of Secretary. our finances and operations for the last financial year.

16 OUR BOARD

Terry Wetherall Jeremy Johnson Peter Hood James Pearson President, Board Chair and Chair Deputy President, Chair of the Immediate Past President, Chief Executive Offi cer, Chair of of General Council, Chair of the Audit and Risk Committee Chair of the ICC Australia National the Executive Management Group Remuneration Committee Policy Committee, Chair of the Service Award Committee

Prof Trevor Cairney Stephen Cartwright Dr Agu Kantsler Steve Knott AM OAM CEO of the NSW Business President of the Chamber of CEO of the Australian Mines and President of the NSW Business Chamber, Chair of the Workplace Commerce and Industry of Metals Association Chamber, Chair of the Relations Policy Committee Western Australia, Chair of Employment, Education and the Work Health and Safety Training Policy Committee and Workers Compensation Committee

Theresa Moltoni Don Rankin Mark Stone AM Deidre Willmott OAM President of the Victorian CEO of the Victorian Chamber of CEO of the Chamber of President of the Chamber Chamber of Commerce and Commerce and Industry, Chair of Commerce and Industry WA, of Commerce and Industry Industry the Economics and Industry Policy Chair of the Sustainability Policy Queensland Committee Committee 17 STRATEGIC PLAN 2017 - 2020

OUR VISION OUR MISSION OUR VALUES

To make Australia the best To be Australia’s most Unity of purpose, place in the world to do influential and respected commitment to excellence, business—so that Australians business leadership independence in have the jobs, living organisation. advocacy, respect for our standards and opportunities stakeholders and integrity to which they aspire. in all that we do.

STRATEGIC PRIORITIES AND BUSINESS REVIEW 2017

National policy leadership for all Australian businesses Resources to meet the mission

•• Win public support for our priorities and persuade •• Grow the Business Leaders Council and Industry the Government & Parliament to adopt them Association membership •• Develop strong, evidence-based policy priorities in •• Develop national packages for membership and consultation with our members services •• Empower and motivate members and •• Grow our services offering for members businesspeople to speak out with our messages •• Powerful responsive team empowered by better back •• Harness the resources of our member organisations office systems AUSTRALIAN CHAMBER ANNUAL REPORT ANNUAL REPORT AUSTRALIAN CHAMBER

MEASURES OF SUCCESS

• Implementation of Australian Chamber policy by • Member and Business Leaders Council retention and Government recruitment • Staff and member access to government, • Surplus 2018–19 and beyond parliamentarians and influencers • Secretariat demonstrating values of the Chamber • Member satisfaction survey results

18 GENERAL COUNCIL MEETINGS

THE AUSTRALIAN CHAMBER HOSTS THREE GENERAL COUNCIL MEETINGS A YEAR. MEMBERS DEBATE AND COORDINATE THE AUSTRALIAN CHAMBER’S POLICY POSITION ON A RANGE OF MATTERS AFFECTING BUSINESS. INFLUENTIAL BUSINESS AND POLICY LEADERS, JOURNALISTS AND MEMBERS OF PARLIAMENT, HAVE BEEN INVITED TO SPEAK TO INFORM THE GROUP.

November 2016 July 2017

The Hon Bob Carr, former Premier of NSW and Minister The Chamber of Commerce and Industry Queensland for Foreign Affairs, addressed this meeting Canberra. With (CCIQ) hosted the meeting in Brisbane. General Council two days after the US Presidential Election, Mr Carr spoke about the implications of the election result The General Council heard from the Minister for Tourism, for Australia’s economic, political and security interests. Trade and Investment, the Hon Steven Ciobo MP, who spoke about the importance of free trade. Members agreed Committee Chairs provided policy updates, which were on the formation of an Advocacy Committee and held followed by extensive discussions. Some of the key issues robust discssion on a number of policy points including addressed included Federal budget submission, AgVet energy. chemical labelling requirements and apprenticeships. CCIQ invited members to attend a gala dinner held at The economic update was provided by Treasury Secretary GOMA, where they celebrated small business heroism John Fraser. followed by a breakfast the next morning on the 2018 Commonwealth Games. March 2017

Hosted by the Tasmanian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (TCCI) in Hobart, much discussion and debate was held on a number of current policy matters, including penalty rates. Urbis Chief Economist Nikki Hutley provided an economic update.

Members joined local business leaders and politicians at a gala dinner at MONA followed the next morning by a Tourism breakfast, both also organised by TCCI.

19 POLICY COMMITTEE CHAIRS

OUR COMMITTEES AIM TO ENCOURAGE FREE ENTERPRISE, INVESTMENT AND ENTREPRENEURSHIP. OUR POLICIES ARE DEVELOPED THROUGH OUR SEVEN POLICY COMMITTEES.

Economics and Industry Workplace Relations Chair: Mark Stone AM (CEO of the Chair: Stephen Cartwright (CEO of

Victorian Chamber of Commerce the NSW Business Chamber) AND BUSINESS REVIEW 2017 and Industry)

Work, Health and Safety Sustainability Chair: Agu Kantsler (President of Chair: Deidre Willmott (CEO of the Chamber of Commerce and the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Western Australia) Industry of Western Australia)

Employment, Education and Australian Chamber – Tourism

Training Executive Director: John Hart ANNUAL REPORT AUSTRALIAN CHAMBER Chair: Professor Trevor Cairney OAM (President of the NSW Business Chamber)

Trade and International Affairs Chair: Peter Hood

20 “Australia needs to ensure we are on a trajectory to regain and cement our position as a leading global economy.” James Pearson

21 Our 10 policy proposals are practical and achievable and remain central to our advocacy.

OVER THE PAST DECADE AUSTRALIA HAS 1. Give young people a chance to succeed by FALLEN FROM 10TH TO 22ND ON THE making it easier for employers to take on GLOBAL COMPETITIVENESS INDEX, WITH apprentices and trainees OUR BIGGEST WEAKNESS IN THE AREAS OF INNOVATION, TAX REFORM AND 2. Ensure government spending is sustainable WORKPLACE RELATIONS. by reducing it to less than 25 per cent of GDP 3. Help industries grow through workplace The result is less investment, fewer jobs and missed regulation that better responds to their needs opportunities. 4. Let entrepreneurs get on with growing their The Australian Chamber Top 10 in 10 is our program businesses by reducing government red tape

to return to the ranks of the ten most competitive AND BUSINESS REVIEW 2017 each year nations in the world within ten years. 5. Create jobs by allowing employers and We developed it for the July 2016 Federal Election as employees to negotiate workplace an agenda for the 45th Parliament. arrangements that best meet their needs

Already, in the first year of the parliament: 6. Boost incomes by cutting the company tax rate to 25 per cent within ten years through • Company tax cuts have been legislated for annual reductions businesses with turnovers up to $50 million. 7. Build the transport, communications and • The Australian Building and Construction energy facilities we need by backing the Commission (ABCC) has been reinstated. independent plan of Infrastructure Australia AUSTRALIAN CHAMBER ANNUAL REPORT ANNUAL REPORT AUSTRALIAN CHAMBER • We have seen strong commitments to 8. Lower building costs by bringing back infrastructure investment. and retaining the Australian Building and • The Federal Budget set aside funding for Construction Commission apprenticeships in the Skilling Australians Fund. 9. Encourage innovation and value for money • The 2017–18 Budget projects Government by facilitating greater competition in spending will be 25 per cent of GDP from next government-funded education, health and year. aged care services

Much of our advocacy agenda for this parliament has 10. Welcome more international visitors by making visas cheaper and easier to obtain been achieved in the past year.

22 SUBMISSIONS

1. Australian Chamber – Tourism submission to Working Holiday Maker Visa Review (September 2016)

2. Victorian Work Health and Safety Regulations Review (September 2016)

3. Fair Work (Registered Organisations) Bill 2014 (September 2016)

4. Competition and Consumer Amendment (Competition Policy Review) Bill 2016 – Exposure Draft (September 2016)

5. Enterprise Tax Plan – Senate Inquiry (September 2016)

6. Annual Wage Review 2016–17: Preliminary Issues (October 2016)

7. Senate Foreign Affairs, Defence and Trade References Committee TPP inquiry (October 2016)

8. Tourism - Senate Economics Legislation Committee, Inquiry into Working Holiday Maker Reform Package (October 2016)

9. Superannuation - Alternative Default Models - Response to the Commission’s Issues Paper (October 2016)

10. 5 Year Productivity Review (December 2016)

11. The Superannuation (Objective) Bill 2016 – Submissions to Senate Economics Legislation Committee (December 2016)

12. Proposed Industry Funding Model for ASIC (January 2017)

13. Fairer Paid Parental Leave Bill 2016 (December 2016)

14. Comments on the Discussion Paper on the new Disability Employment Service from 2018 (January 2017)

23 15. Inquiry into the Incidence of, and Trends in, 33. Inquiry into establishing a Modern Slavery Corporate Avoidance of the Fair Work Act 2009 Act in Australia: Joint Standing Committee on (November 2016) Foreign Affairs, Defence and Trade (May 2017)

16. Submission Regarding S 18E of the Racial 34. Superannuation: Alternative Default Models Discrimination Act (January 2017) - Submission to the Productivity Commission (May 2017) 17. Futureproofing Australia: 2017–18 Pre-Budget Submission (February 2017) 35. Inquiry into retail electricity supply and pricing (June 2017) 18. Tourism’s 2017–2018 Pre-Budget Submission to Treasury (February 2017) 36. Implementing reforms to the National Industrial Chemicals Notification and 19. Building and Construction Industry (Improving Assessment Scheme (NICNAS): Consultation Productivity) Amendment Bill 2017 Paper 5 (July 2017) (February 2017) 37. Response to Consultation Paper on reforms to 20. Inquiry into the Non-Payment of the the Fair Entitlements Guarantee scheme Superannuation Guarantee (March 2017) (June 2017)

21. Inquiry into Gender Segregation in the 38. House Committee on Employment Education Workplace (March 2017) and Training: Inquiry into School to Work 22. PC Review into the Multi-Regulator Model of Transition (July 2017) the Australian Consumer Law (March 2017) 39. References Committee Inquiry on Penalty 23. Submission to the independent review into Rates (August 2017) the future security of the national electricity 40. General Review of the ASEAN-Australia-New AND BUSINESS REVIEW 2017 market (March 2017) Zealand Free Trade Area (AANZFTA) 2017 24. Foreign Affairs White Paper (March 2017) (August 2017)

25. Annual Wage Review 2016–2017 41. Australian Chamber’s Response to the Interim (March 2017) Report of the Black Economy Taskforce (August 2017) 26. Payment Times and Practices Inquiry - A Submission to the Australian Small Business 42. Submission to the Fair Work Commission re and Family Enterprise Ombudsman unfair dismissal application regarding fixed (March 2017) term contracts (August 2017)

27. Fair Work Amendment (Corrupting Benefits) 43. Treasury Legislation Amendment (Improving Bill 2017 (April 2017) Accountability and Member Outcomes in Superannuation) Bill 2017 (September 2017)

28. Fair Work Amendment (Repeal of 4 Yearly ANNUAL REPORT AUSTRALIAN CHAMBER Reviews and Other Measures) Bill 2017 44. Independent Review into Regional, Rural and (April 2017) Remote Education (September 2017)

29. Fair Work Amendment (Protecting Vulnerable 45. Fair Work (Registered Organisations) Workers) Bill 2017 (April 2017) Amendment (Ensuring Integrity) Bill 2017 (September 2017) 30. Superannuation: Alternative Default Models (April 2017) 46. Submission to the Finance and Administration Committee (QLD) | Work Health and Safety 31. Response to the Department of the and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2017 Environment and Energy Discussion Paper on (September 2017) Review of Climate Change Policies (May 2017) 47. Response to the proposed amendments to 32. Inquiry into the Fair Work Amendment (Pay the Poisons Standard - Joint ACCS/ACMS Protection) Bill 2017 (May 2017) meetings, November 2017 (Helium) (September 2017)

24 MEDIA AND CAMPAIGNS MANAGER: AMY KEENAN

ACROSS ALL TYPES OF MEDIA, OUR EFFORT FOCUSED ON EXPLAINING WHY WE NEED TO MAKE AUSTRALIA THE BEST PLACE IN THE WORLD IN WHICH TO DO BUSINESS. WE TOUCHED ON COMPANY TAX, APPRENTICESHIPS, SKILLED MIGRATION, INDUSTRIAL RELATIONS AND THE REINTRODUCTION OF THE AUSTRALIAN BUILDING AND CONSTRUCTION COMMISSION (ABCC), THE FAIR WORK COMMISSION’S PENALTY RATES DECISION, THE IMPORTANCE OF FREE TRADE AND A LOT MORE BESIDES.

While our media effort looked across a broad range of impressions. We doubled our LinkedIn page following to issues affecting Australian business, our top tweet for the around 1,500 people. Our Facebook following across year reflects the biggest media and business issue of the the Australian Chamber and Small Business Too Big to year: energy prices. Ignore pages is steady at around 25,000. New initiatives this year included live streaming significant events, When the Prime Minister heeded our calls for small offering video messages on key issues such as penalty business customers to be included in measures to rates and using infographics on social media to explain help households with their energy costs, we reached things like the Australian Chamber-Westpac Survey of some 50,000 people with a single tweet, such is the Industrial Trends. importance of this issue to Australian business. We held our second Communications Summit, Across print, broadcast, social media and other digital bringing together media managers from across our channels, the Australian Chamber’s senior team member network to discuss our shared challenges contributed to the national debate. We issued 103 and opportunities. The theme for this year’s event was media releases and were mentioned in some 450 print ‘Advocacy in a time of populism’, which neatly captures and digital articles and over 430 radio and television the challenges we faced over the course of the year, and broadcasts. From Sabra Lane and Fran Kelly to Phil expect to face for some time to come. Coorey and Ewin Hannan, a cast of senior broadcasters and print journalists regularly referenced our work, Australian Chamber @AusChamber . Aug 30 helping us to achieve coverage equated to an advertising .@TurnbullMalcolm says small business will benefit from the measures to help spend of $16.5 million. energy customers get a better deal.

James Pearson’s opinion pieces covered higher education, infrastructure, trade, penalty rates, award wage rises, the future of manufacturing, the Budget and Adam Carr, Director of Economics and Industry Policy said: We have been concerned that small business customers are missing out on unfair dismissal, and ran in publications from the Courier getting the best deal on their energy prices. We want energy retailers to make it easier for small businesses, for everyone Mail to the Financial Review. to compare offers and to switch if they are not getting the best deal. Our members have told us that their energy costs are soaring and that a part of the problem is that it’s dificult to compare offers from retailers. Over the twelve months, we doubled our Twitter followers The announcement from the Prime Minister that small business will be included in today’s measures agreed with the energy retailers is a win for to 4,450 and achieved more than 750,000 tweet small business and a good step forward. We look forward to more information from the Government about how small businesses will access the benefits from these measures. But more needs to be done to get prices down.

25 51 12 33 MEDIA YEAR IN NUMBERS

TRADITIONAL & DIGITAL MEDIA

103 450 430 16.5 MEDIA PRINT & ONLINE RADIO & TELEVISION MILLION $ RELEASES ARTICLES BROADCASTS ASR

SOCIAL MEDIA

4450 750,000 1500 25,000 TWITTER TWEET LINKEDIN FACEBOOK AND BUSINESS REVIEW 2017 FOLLOWERS IMPRESSIONS FOLLOWERS FOLLOWERS

MEDIA HITS BY OUTLET

The Australian Australian Financial Review ABC News 3AW VIC 2GB NSW

6PR WA ANNUAL REPORT AUSTRALIAN CHAMBER Sydney Morning Herald Sky News Live Radio National NEWS.com.au The Age ABC Online 2CC ACT ABC Radio Melbourne 4BC QLD Herald Sun 5AA SA Adelaide Advertiser ABC Radio Perth Daily Telegraph

0 20 40 60 80

26 ECONOMICS AND INDUSTRY AND SUSTAINABILITY DIRECTOR: ADAM CARR

AS PRIORITIES OUTLINED IN OUR TOP 10 IN 10, THE CHAMBER HAS ADVOCATED ON BEHALF OF MEMBERS TO SEE BUSINESS TAXES CUT TO 25 PER CENT AND FOR THE GOVERNMENT TO RESTRAIN SPENDING TO 25 PER CENT OF GDP.

As a part of this effort and to build public support for the Enterprise Tax Plan, the Australian Chamber conducted an analysis of the impact of previous company tax cuts. It found that—and following three cuts over the past three decades—government revenue from company tax had increased within two years. The Chamber then lobbied extensively for the passage of the Tax Plan.

As part of our push to improve public finances, we released a detailed Pre-Budget Submission that warned of the dangers of prolonged budget deficits and offered practical ideas to bring spending down to less than 25 per cent of GDP. Our submission also identified areas suitable for investment of public funds to expand economic opportunities. It was pleasing to see the government outline a path to get spending down to 25 per cent of GDP in the 2017–18 Budget.

The Federal Budget itself drew a good deal of public attention throughout April and May. The Chamber responded to leaks in the lead up to the Budget and provided members with in-depth coverage on Budget Night.

The Australian Chamber has been addressing red tape, hosting several regulatory reform roundtables with Senator the Hon James McGrath, Assistant Minister to the Prime

27 Minister. CCIQ kindly hosted further discussions on regulation, red tape, small business and energy with key Queensland stakeholders.

We have been involved in discussions around the Australian Government Competitiveness Council through which “We released a stakeholders within business, government and academia evaluate economic challenges and opportunities in relation to detailed Pre-Budget competition and make policy recommendations where suitable.

Submission that We lodged submissions to the Productivity Commission on the administration of the Australian Consumer Law warned of the dangers and on ideas for improving Australia’s productivity. We made a submission to Treasury on the funding model for AND BUSINESS REVIEW 2017 of prolonged budget Australia’s financial regulator and on business investment. deficits and offered Other submissions included those into the Black Market Economy, the ACCC’s Inquiry into retail electricity prices and practical ideas to Environmental Assessments among others. bring spending The Australian Chamber also made a Submission in Reply and a Post Budget submission to the Annual Wage Review down to less than and prosecuted the case for wage restraint alongside the 25 per cent of GDP.” Workplace Relations Team, before the Fair Work Commission. We liaised extensively with organisations including Standards Australia, the Productivity Commission, Treasury,

the Department of Industry, the Australian Taxation Office, ANNUAL REPORT AUSTRALIAN CHAMBER the Small Business Ombudsman, and the Office of Best Practice Regulation.

We were also pleased to see the recommendations from the Finkel Review take up issues we raised in our submission, and we have been reported extensively in the media on the need to reduce power prices.

Finally, we produced our quarterly Australian Chamber- Westpac Survey of Industrial Trends, Australia’s longest- running business survey, with each survey launched at a media conference at Parliament House.

28 WORKPLACE RELATIONS DIRECTOR: SCOTT BARKLAMB

WORKPLACE RELATIONS POLICY DEBATE IN conversation around the role of business in human rights AUSTRALIA REMAINED HIGHLY CONTENTIOUS matters. In consultations on a Modern Slavery Act in Australia, we THROUGHOUT 2017. emphasised the need to minimise impacts on Australian small business suppliers and for any new obligations to be phased in. High profile cases of non-compliance and union misconduct drove policy and legislative changes. The Fair Work In the Fair Work Commission, we represented employers in Commission’s decision to modestly reduce some penalty the annual wage review and successfully moderated damaging rates generated divisive political debate. union claims under the 4-yearly review process, including claims to restrict casual and part time work and for 10 days The Australian Chamber advanced employer interests in paid domestic violence leave. We are also opposing an ACTU multiple inquiries including opposing legislation that would claim to effectively enable parents and carers to choose their neutralise the benefits of the penalty rates decision and hours of work without any employer right of refusal. further damage enterprise bargaining. The Fair Work Commission invited the Chamber to Through our advocacy and participation in a major inquiry, address matters of general significance to the workplace we secured improvements to legislation amending the Fair relations system, including access to unfair dismissal where Work Act to expand investigatory powers, increase penalties employment ceases at the end of a fixed term contract and and also introduce new liabilities for franchisors. the proper application of the Better Off Overall Test (BOOT) for enterprise agreement making. We represented members in a Senate inquiry into corporate avoidance of the Fair Work Act and equipped the network We played a practical role in facilitating engagement between to respond to future legislation. Worrying proposals included members and regulators such as the new Registered preventing employers from terminating expired enterprise Organisations Commissioner, Australian Building and agreements, reintroducing compulsory arbitration, increased Construction Commissioner and Fair Work Ombudsman. union entry powers, and further regulation of independent contracting and labour hire. Scott Barklamb joined the Chamber as Director, Workplace Relations in early 2017. In June, Scott was elected to the Other submissions addressed superannuation changes, Governing Body of the International Labour Organisation (ILO) new governance and disclosure obligations for registered and our CEO James Pearson was appointed to the Management union and employer organisations, penalties against giving Board of the International Organisation of Employers (IOE). This and receiving corrupting benefits and support for a public continues decades of global and regional leadership by the interest test for union mergers. Chamber network, which is increasingly relevant to current and future challenges facing Australian business. A newer dimension of the Chamber’s work saw us join the

29 “In a significant win at SWA, the Chamber successfully WORKPLACE HEALTH lobbied for an exemption for GHS chemical labelling of AND SAFETY AND Schedule 4 & 8 veterinary WORKERS’ COMPENSATION medicines.” ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR: JENNIFER LOW

THE WORKPLACE HEALTH AND SAFETY support to progress nationally harmonised explosives (WHS) AND WORKERS’ COMPENSATION (WC) legislation, which was endorsed. In a significant win at POLICY DIVISION IS DISTINCTIVE IN THAT SWA, the Chamber successfully lobbied for an exemption THE ISSUES AND THE LEGISLATION REQUIRE for the Globally Harmonised System of Classification COVERAGE AT BOTH FEDERAL AND STATE- and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS) of Schedule 4 & 8 BASED LEVELS. veterinary medicines.

As well as representing employers on national forums As a member of SWA and the MHWA, the Australian such as at Safe Work Australia (SWA), the Mentally Chamber coordinated a panel discussion event on the AND BUSINESS REVIEW 2017 Healthy Workplace Alliance (MHWA), Standards Australia “Facts and fallacies behind mentally healthy workplaces” and the National Industrial Chemicals and Notification for National Safe Work Month in October. The event Assessment Scheme Consultative Committee (NICNAS), attracted 502 online viewers in addition to the live the Australian Chamber provides support and assistance audience (the video is available for download on the SWA to members on State-based matters such as with Virtual Seminar Series website). the proposed industrial manslaughter legislation in We conducted a WHS & WC survey with members which Queensland and Western Australia. highlighted that the updates on key policy information WHS and WC continues to be an important area for our and the opportunity to debate and provide specific input members and in the second half of 2016 we made the into policy positions is of most value comparative to strategic decision to elevate our representation on the other activities. In response to this member feedback we board of SWA to CEO level, with support provided by overhauled the WHS & WC monthly newsletter, reviewed ANNUAL REPORT AUSTRALIAN CHAMBER the WHS & WC Associate Director. James Pearson has and restructured the technical reference groups in order also been nominated as the sole industry representative to streamline information and provided a number of in a five-member reference group tasked with working opportunities for members to debate policy matters in with the independent reviewer for the 2018 review of forums such as committee meetings and technical or the model WHS laws, which will provide the Chamber topic specific teleconferences. and our members unique insight and influence over the Utilising the restructured reference groups, the Australian review process moving forward. Chamber’s feedback to SWA resulted in significant The Australian Chamber made submissions to the technical edits to three model codes, two new draft Western Australian and Victorian reviews of the OHS/ guides and the new Best Practice Framework for the WHS Regulations and penned a joint industry letter with Management of Psychological Injury Claims. Ai Group to all respective WHS Ministers seeking their

30 “The Chamber has maintained regular engagement with the Minister, the Department and State Ministers to ensure that the $1.5 billion fund EDUCATION, EMPLOYMENT best achieves its outcomes AND TRAINING through strong industry engagement and national DIRECTOR: JENNY LAMBERT reform.”

OVER THE PAST YEAR, THERE HAS BEEN the number of apprenticeships and traineeships by SIGNIFICANT EFFORT AND ADVOCACY IN 300,000 over four years. In addition to hosting Assistant AREAS INCLUDING YOUTH TRANSITIONS, Minister Andrews at a Chamber event, the Chamber has APPRENTICESHIPS AND MIGRATION. maintained regular engagement with the Minister, the Department and state ministers to ensure the $1.5 billion An area of challenge has been skilled migration, with fund best achieves its outcomes through strong industry a major change announced in April. The Australian engagement and national reform. Chamber hosted a breakfast with the Prime Minister, where he emphasized that the change was in response The Chamber hosted a roundtable in Sydney on higher to community concern. The impact on business has been education and what the business community expects negative due to increased fees and new training levies, and needs from graduates entering the workplace. Given and the removal or restriction of eligible occupations. the Government’s revised higher education policy and with Minister Birmingham in attendance, views of the The Chamber’s engagement with the Department, the business community were directly heard. Minister and his office on behalf of business contributed to the relisting of more occupations than anticipated in The Chamber made substantial submissions to the the July review, and a softening on the refund policy School to Work Transition Inquiry and the Independent for training levies. There is a long way to go and the Review into Rural, Regional and Remote Education. We Chamber will continue putting the case forward for are involved in a working group providing input into a businesses needing skilled migration to grow. National Career Education Strategy. This provided an opportunity for the Chamber to highlight the importance The Chamber’s ongoing engagement with the of job seekers and students being fully informed about Government’s Youth Jobs PaTH program has meant the job market, including the various choices available that we have been in regular communication with the such as apprenticeships and possible financial outcomes. Minister for Employment’s office and the Department, with Minister Cash attending our October EET committee meeting with members, and discussing the program in more detail.

Apprenticeship has been a focus area, where we worked with other business groups resulting in the establishment of a new Skilling Australians Fund to replace the previous vocational training partnership agreement with the States and Territories. The fund is aimed at boosting

31 TRADE AND INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS DIRECTOR: BRYAN CLARK

MITIGATING PUBLIC ANXIETIES OVER GLOBALISATION AND INTERNATIONAL COMPETITION HAVE CONTINUED TO DOMINATE OUR EFFORTS.

In the 200th year of David Ricardo’s theory of comparative We delivered the inaugural Asia-Pacific Mediation advantage, the Australian Chamber has continued to Competition to develop the skills of young mediators, held in make the case for free trade, including highlighting that Melbourne in July 2017 with 14 teams from Australia, New global markets benefit people in their everyday lives Zealand, India and Singapore competing. The competition and improve their quality of life. was eventually won by the team of the Singapore National University and the event was a great success and will now AND BUSINESS REVIEW 2017 Once again we have worked closely with the Department form part of our annual calendar of events. of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) in its trade negotiations We continued our DFAT-supported projects on with Indonesia and in the Regional Comprehensive Women’s Economic Empowerment in Indian Ocean Economic Partnership. Rim Association nations. Two events were held in South Africa in 2017 in Pietermaritzburg and Middelburg To deliver trade facilitation services for Australian trading and supported by the local Chambers of Commerce in businesses we worked with DFAT and with Australian both locations. The two events highlighted the unmet Border Force through the National Trade Facilitation demand for further information about international trade Committee and the Australian Anti-Dumping Commission. opportunities and the physical process of international business engagement.

We have also worked with the International Chamber ANNUAL REPORT AUSTRALIAN CHAMBER of Commerce to harmonise the regional requirements We also finalised our Women Mean Business Digital for documents (including certificates of origin and rules of Toolbox and associated publication. DFAT has continued origin), to remove regulatory burdens and to accelerate to engage with us on this topic and we will be assisting cross-border trade. with further events in 2017–18.

“The Australian Chamber has continued to make the case for free trade, including highlighting that global markets benefit people in their everyday lives and improve their quality of life.”

32 “The Australian Chamber believes regional tourism has enormous potential for future growth – if we get the policy settings and the investment right.” John Hart

33 “Australian Chamber – Tourism is continuing to resolve by advocating for AUSTRALIAN policy changes that actually align with the needs of CHAMBER - TOURISM industry.” EXECUTIVE CHAIR: JOHN HART

THE BENEFITS IN ESTABLISHING THE the 457 changes; these are areas Australian Chamber – AUSTRALIAN CHAMBER – TOURISM BECAME Tourism is continuing to resolve by advocating for policy VERY CLEAR IN LATE 2016 IN THE CONTEXT OF changes that actually align with the needs of industry. THE GOVERNMENT’S CHANGES TO THE TAX PAID BY WORKING HOLIDAY MAKERS. Next year Australian Chamber – Tourism will have a strong presence on the industry committee established The Chamber was able to commission research from by the Government to determine a tourism strategy Lateral Economics which added great value to the debate beyond 2020. This is an achievement for the Chamber as we know that any future strategic direction must be at the Senate inquiry. The Chair, John Hart, presented to AND BUSINESS REVIEW 2017 the inquiry demonstrating the over-collection of the industry-driven to truly succeed. proposed Passenger Movement Charge (PMC) increase. A major focus during 2017 has been regional tourism. We urged the Parliament to resolve this matter in a The Chamber has strongly advocated for Governments way that minimised the harm inflicted on businesses in to increase regional infrastructure funding, gaining tourism. This contributed to the ultimate settlement on significant media attention, and has been vocal in its a 15 per cent rate of tax and a significant campaign to support of the Federal Government’s Regional Growth promote Australia as a destination to the youth market. Fund to be centred around regional connectivity and Whilst continued advocacy is vital, domestic and access in order to better spread the economic benefit international visitor numbers are at record levels, and tourism provides. overnight spend by visitors has cracked the $100 billion In addition to our regular committee meetings, during mark for the first time. Australian Chamber – Tourism 2017, Australian Chamber – Tourism has also hosted ANNUAL REPORT AUSTRALIAN CHAMBER constantly points out that in terms of job numbers and a Tourism Australian cocktail event with Chair John GDP contributions, tourism is the unsung hero of the O’Sullivan, the breakfast before the July General Council Australian economy. However, the Chamber is acutely meeting with Queensland Minister Kate Jones and aware of the challenges facing the sector. The supply of Commonwealth Games Chairman Peter Beattie and a trade-level workers has slowed dramatically to levels not roundtable in Parliament House attended by Ministers seen since 1999; higher lever entrants have all but come Ciobo and Dutton, followed by a strongly attended to a stop and the supply of workers from off-shore has Parliamentary Friends of Tourism cocktail event. also slowed. Backpacker numbers are sliding after the tax change and skilled workers have been caught up in

34 BIZ BETTER TOGETHER SENIOR MANAGER: SARAH MCGREGOR

THE AUSTRALIAN CHAMBER ‘BIZ BETTER TOGETHER’ INITIATIVE TO HELP IMPROVE WORKPLACE PRODUCTIVITY IN AUSTRALIAN BUSINESSES WAS ESTABLISHED WITH SUPPORT FROM THE DEPARTMENT OF (Melbourne 2017); and social media authority Laurel EMPLOYMENT THROUGH THE PRODUCTIVITY Papworth (Canberra 2017). Digital platform Envato’s HR AND EDUCATION TRAINING FUND. manager Amber Johnson’s presentation at the Melbourne 2017 particularly well-received, highlighting the importance In the last twelve months the Biz Better Together team has of this topic for Australian business people. continued to deliver events, training and content aimed at improving productivity to Chamber members and business Biz Better Together continued tits successful partnership people across the country. with digital business news publisher SmartCompany to deliver more events in the Great Australian Workplace Since its inception in October 2015, Biz Better Together Webinar series, with webinars on workplace regulation and has hosted more than 100 events, built a database of workplace diversity. We also partnered with SmartCompany 5,000 and engaged with nearly 10,000 people. The social to hold an event for National Safe Work Month in October, media channels have an audience of 2,000 plus, with discussing some of the issues that arise with Workers’ the social media event Twitter hashtag #MobileBizWomen Compensation. This event was recorded and made available trending Australia-wide at events and reaching millions of online. Twitter users, helping to raise the profile of the initiative. Building on the success of the recently concluded Mobile- In 2016–2017 we partnered with the Victorian Chamber ising Women in Business event series, the Biz Better of Commerce and Industry, Business SA and the Canberra Together team is now turning its attention to its exciting new Business Chamber to deliver more of our successful major event series, to be launched in the first half of 2018. Mobile-ising Women in Business events to hundreds of people. Keynote speakers at the most recent instalments of this series, as pictured, include CEO of Emergent Holly Ransom (Canberra 2017); author and documentary film maker Tara Moss (Adelaide 2017), and leadership advisor Dr Jason Fox (Melbourne 2017). Other speakers that struck a chord with our audiences included ‘Dame of Drones’ Dr Catherine Ball (Adelaide 2017); 2012 Young Australian of the Year and robotics expert Marita Cheng

35 BIZ BETTER TOGETHER

MOBILE-ISING WOMEN IN BUSINESS (MWIB)

5 877 48 CONFERENCES GUESTS SPEAKERS

ARTICLES PUBLISHED AND BUSINESS REVIEW 2017 ABOUT BUSINESS OWNERS, 50 ENTREPRENEURS AND INDUSTRY LEADERS

SUPPORTED OR PARTNERED WITH 49 SMALL BUSINESS EVENTS 49 INCLUDING BREAKFASTS, ONLINE SEMINARS AND INDUSTRY FORUMS AUSTRALIAN CHAMBER ANNUAL REPORT ANNUAL REPORT AUSTRALIAN CHAMBER

SOCIAL STATISTICS GROWTH

510 167,900 380 470,000 FACEBOOK FACEBOOK TWITTER TWEET FOLLOWERS USERS REACHED FOLLOWERS IMPRESSIONS

36 2016 EXPORT AWARDS

THE AUSTRALIAN CHAMBER CELEBRATED Australian Exporter of the Year Award EXPORT SUCCESS AT THE 54TH AUSTRALIAN Envato (VIC) EXPORT AWARDS IN BRISBANE IN NOVEMBER 2016. 54th Australian Export Awards category winners

Agribusiness Award Co-presented by Austrade, the Australian Chamber and Australian Honey Products Pty Ltd (TAS) CPA Australia, the program recognises and honours Australian companies engaged in international business that Business Services Award have achieved sustainable growth through innovation and Incat Crowther (NSW) commitment. The Awards measure businesses against their Creative Industries Award peers based on the strength of their international growth, Cutting Edge (QLD) marketing and financial strategies. Digital Technologies Award Hosted by the Hon Steven Ciobo MP, Minister for Trade, Envato (VIC) Tourism and Investment, the Awards covered 12 industry categories recognising excellence in fields including e-Commerce Award agribusiness, education, health, creative industries and Freelancer.com (NSW) business services. Education and Training Award Digital technology company, Envato, was named Exporter iSimulate (ACT) of the Year. Operating since 2006, Envato is a collection of Environmental Solutions Award online marketplaces that connect people in need of digital Sentek Technologies (SA) content with animators, designers, web developers and musicians. Health and Biotechnology Award Ego Pharmaceuticals (VIC) Australian Chamber CEO James Pearson presented the award for Environmental Solutions to Sentek Technologies Manufacturing Award from South Australia, it has developed world-class soil Aim Lab Automation Technologies (QLD) moisture and irrigation technologies. Minerals, Energy and Related Services Award Gekko Systems (VIC)

Regional Exporter Award Almondco Australia Ltd (SA)

Small Business Award Typefi Systems (QLD)

37 •• Built on the success of the Business Leaders MEMBER Council, which allows businesses to become directly involved in the Australian Chamber, and increased the BENEFITS membership to 49.

•• Increased the Australian Chamber’s industry MEMBER BENEFITS DELIVERED OVER THE PAST association membership to 70 giving a stronger YEAR INCLUDED COMMUNICATING THE AUSTRALIAN collective voice to our policy positions. CHAMBER’S POLICY POSITION TO MEMBERS, GOVERNMENT AND MEDIA, AN EXTENSIVE EVENTS •• Produced 43 networking events that allowed PROGRAM AND FOSTERING PARTNERSHIPS THAT members to obtain exclusive access to federal ADDED VALUE TO OUR MEMBER OFFERING. politicians, bureaucrats, senior policy makers and regulators. Over the year we: •• Produced quarterly Activities & Achievements •• Facilitated member input into Australian Chamber publications to communicate the Australian policy positions and submissions through policy Chamber’s successes on behalf of members. AND BUSINESS REVIEW 2017 committee meetings. •• Maintained the Australian Chamber website to •• Hosted General Council Meetings in November, April facilitate internal and external communications across and July to provide the platform for members to a range of policy areas. debate Australian Chamber policy positions. •• Sought sponsorship and partnerships to cover the •• Delivered weekly member-only communications, costs of major activities and add to our membership AusChamber Insights, providing analysis from the offering. Australian Chamber CEO and policy directors on •• Launched ChamberEDGE, a digital platform for issues impacting business. Chambers issuing Certificates of Origin to Australian •• Enhanced the Australian Chamber’s social media exporters. It reduces costs for Chambers and provides exporters with an automated solution. presence across four Facebook pages, three Twitter ANNUAL REPORT AUSTRALIAN CHAMBER accounts, LinkedIn and YouTube.

•• Provided member access to timely economic data via our quarterly economic surveys.

•• Provided timely communications and information to members on the Federal Budget.

•• Offered Chamber and Industry Association Members opportunities to partner on events with federal politicians and regulatory representatives, including the 2016 Small Business Minister Event Series with the Hon Michael McCormack MP.

38 AUSTRALIAN CHAMBER EVENTS

STATISTICS AT A GLANCE

43 2976 2 EVENTS GUESTS SUMMITS

GUESTS

709 338 BOARD CEOs MEMBERS

137 20 POLITICIANS REGULATORS

39 2016 BUSINESS LEADERS ANNUAL DINNER AND BUSINESS REVIEW 2017 Prime Minister the Hon Malcolm Turnbull MP joined 350 guests at the Australian Chamber Business Leaders Annual Dinner at the National Gallery in Canberra in November. The event was sponsored by MYOB, CareSuper, The Australian Made Campaign and 3 Degrees Marketing. AUSTRALIAN CHAMBER ANNUAL REPORT ANNUAL REPORT AUSTRALIAN CHAMBER

40 2017 BUSINESS LEADERS SUMMIT

INDUSTRY ASSOCIATION AND BUSINESS LEADERS COUNCIL MEMBERS ATTENDED A DAY OF IDEAS AND DISCUSSIONS ON THE FUTURE OF THE ECONOMY AND HOW BUSINESS CAN CONTRIBUTE TO ACHIEVING POLICY SETTINGS THAT WILL MAKE AUSTRALIA THE BEST PLACE IN THE WORLD TO DO BUSINESS.

Opened by Minister for Foreign Affairs the Hon Julie Bishop MP, the Summit explored issues of health, education and skills, finance and workplace relations.

Luncheon keynote Edelman Australia CEO, Steve Spurr considered how business can help build trust in institutions and help influence public debate.

Jason Pellegrino, Managing Director of Google, Principal Sponsor of the Summit and Cocktail Reception, also discussed opportunities presented by the digital economy.

Exceptional panellists and speakers included Hon Karen Andrews MP, Assistant Minister for Vocational education and Skills, Senator the Hon Doug Cameron, Shadow Minister for Skills and Apprenticeships, Natalie James, Fair Work Ombudsman, Hon Brendan O’Connor MP, Shadow Minster for Employment and Training and Mark Cormack, Deputy Secretary, Department of Health.

MPs and Senators joined the Chamber at the pre-Summit Cocktail Reception at Parliament House the evening prior.

41 42

AUSTRALIAN CHAMBER ANNUAL REPORT AND BUSINESS REVIEW 2017 “We have been honoured with exceptional panellists and speakers from across the political spectrum and from both public and private sectors.” James Pearson

43 BUSINESS LEADERS COUNCIL EVENTS

Evolution of Cybercrime in Australian Business Luncheon with the Hon Dan Tehan MP, Minister Assisting the Prime Minister for Cyber Security; Detective Superintendent Arthur Katsogiannis, New South Wales Police Force; Marta Ganko, Deloitte and James North, Corrs Chambers Westgarth, hosted by Corrs Chambers Westgarth - 21 October 2016, Sydney

Luncheon with Mr Bob Katter MP, Federal Member for Kennedy - 14 October 2016, Sydney AND BUSINESS REVIEW 2017

Cocktail Reception with Senator the Hon James McGrath, Assistant Minister to the Prime Minister – 3 November 2016, Sydney

Australian Chamber - Tourism Morning Tea and Tour of Flemington Racecourse with the Hon Keith Pitt MP, Assistant

Minister for Trade, Tourism and Investment. Co-hosted by ANNUAL REPORT AUSTRALIAN CHAMBER the Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Victoria BLC Christmas end of Year Drinks with the Hon Peter Dutton Tourism Industry Council (VTIC), Victoria Events Industry Lunch with Senator the Hon Mathias Cormann, Minister for MP, Minister for Immigration and Border Protection - 6 Council (VEIC) and Victoria Racing Club - 28 October 2016, Finance, hosted by Corrs Chambers Westgarth – 22 February December 2016, Sydney Melbourne 2017, Sydney

Cocktail Reception with Senator the Hon Kim Carr, Shadow Minister for Innovation, Industry, Science and Research and discussion with Samantha Read, Chemistry Australia, 2017 Australian Chamber Communications Summit, hosted by the Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry - 17 March hosted by MYOB – 16 March 2017 , Melbourne 2017, Melbourne

44 BUSINESS LEADERS COUNCIL EVENTS

“Upfront and Personal” Luncheon with John Fraser, Secretary to the Treasury, interviewed by Ross Greenwood, Nine Network’s Business and Finance Editor, hosted in conjunction with NSW Business Chamber – 29 March 2017, Sydney

Breakfast with Charles Ng, Associate Director-General of Promotion, Invest Hong Kong; Helen Sawczak, Australia China Business Council; James Laurenceson, Australia-China Relations Institute and the Hon Warwick Smith, Australia-China Council – 24 March 2017, Sydney

Social Media Luncheon: “Opportunities and Risks for a Hyper-Connected Marketplace”, with Greg Daniel, KPMG Social Media Cocktail Reception with the Hon Jason Clare MP, Shadow Minister Intelligence Group; Mia Garlick, Facebook; Matt Tindale, LinkedIn and Suzy Nicoletti, Twitter Australia, hosted by KPMG – 31 for Trade, Investment, Resources and Northern Australia, hosted March 2017, Sydney by Hall & Wilcox Lawyers – 10 April 2017, Sydney

Business Briefing Breakfast with Prime Minister the Hon Malcolm Turnbull MP – 19 April 2017, Canberra Cocktail Reception with Chris Richardson, Deloitte Access Economics, hosted by PremierState – 27 April 2017, Sydney

45 BUSINESS LEADERS COUNCIL EVENTS

Chamber of Commerce and Industry Western Australia and the Australian Chamber Breakfast with the Hon Paul Fletcher MP, Book Launch and Reception, “The Unlikely Entrepreneur” by Minister for Urban Infrastructure – 5 May 2017, Perth Alan Manly, hosted at Dymocks – 11 May 2017, Sydney AND BUSINESS REVIEW 2017

Budget Briefing with the Hon Michael McCormack MP, Minister for Small Business, Budget Reply and Reception with the Hon Dr Andrew Leigh MP, Shadow Assistant Treasurer, hosted hosted by Commonwealth Bank – 17 May 2017, Sydney by EML – 18 May 2017, Sydney AUSTRALIAN CHAMBER ANNUAL REPORT ANNUAL REPORT AUSTRALIAN CHAMBER

Luncheon and Business Briefing on the Internet of Things, Lunch with the Hon Bob Katter MP, Federal Member for Kennedy, hosted by the VACC – 26 May 2017, Melbourne hosted in conjunction with Vodafone and Nokia – 25 May 2017, Sydney

46 BUSINESS LEADERS COUNCIL EVENTS

Australian Chamber – Tourism reception with John O’Sullivan, Tourism Australia and Kerrie Australian-Greek Business & Wine Tourism Forum at The Establishment – 15 June 2017, Mather, Sydney Airport at the Cruise Bar – 30 May 2017, Sydney Sydney

Reception with Nigel Hadgkiss APM, Commissioner, Australian Building and Construction Commission (ABCC), Reception with Natalie James, Fair Work Ombudsman, hosted by hosted by Corrs Chambers Westgarth – 22 June 2017, Sydney Australian Business Lawyers & Advisers – 27 June 2017, Sydney

Luncheon in conjunction with Mastercard with the Hon Dan Tehan MP, Minister Assisting the Roundtable lunches with Senator the Hon James McGrath, Assistant Minister to the Prime Prime Minister for Cyber Security, hosted by PwC – 29 June 2017, Melbourne Minister, Assistant Minister for Regulatory Reform – 18 & 19 July 2017, Sydney

47 BUSINESS LEADERS COUNCIL EVENTS

Reception in conjunction with the Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry with Nigel Roundtable with the Hon Michael McCormack MP, Minister for Small Business Hadgkiss APM, Former Commissioner, Australian Building and Construction Commission – – 27 July 2017, Sydney 19 July 2017, Melbourne AND BUSINESS REVIEW 2017

Reception with Senator David Leyonhjelm, Senator for NSW and Leader ANNUAL REPORT AUSTRALIAN CHAMBER Reception in conjunction with Senator Sam Dastyari’s book release “One Halal of a Story”, hosted by MinterEllison of the Liberal Democrats hosted by City Tattersalls Club – 23 August 2017, Sydney – 31 July 2017, Sydney

Reception with the Hon Michael Sukkar MP, Assistant Minister to the Treasurer, hosted by Corrs Chambers Westgarth – 24 August 2017, Sydney

48 BUSINESS LEADERS COUNCIL EVENTS

Health Industry Forum and Reception with the Hon Dr David Gillespie MP, Assistant Minister for Health, hosted by PwC – 31 August 2017, Sydney

Breakfast with the Hon John Barilaro MP, Deputy Premier, hosted in conjunction with Sydney Business Chamber, Western Sydney - 5 September 2017, Parramatta

Hosted in conjunction with the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office, the Hong Kong 20: Developments and Opportunities Business Forum. Panellists included Arthur Au, HKETO; Nicholas W Yang Secretary for Innovation and Technology of HKSARG; Senator the Hon Arthur Sinodinos AO, Minister for Industry, Innovation and Science and Maile Carnegie, ANZ and Board Member, Innovation and Science Australia – 8 September 2017, Sydney

Forum with Linda Kromjong, Secretary-General of the International Organisation of Employers (IOE), the Hon Chris Evans, Walk Free Foundation and Assoc Prof Sarah Kaine, UTS Business School – 22 September 2017, Sydney

49

AUSTRALIAN CHAMBER MEMBERS BUSINESS SA | CANBERRA BUSINESS CHAMBER | CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

AND INDUSTRY QUEENSLAND | CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY WESTERN AUSTRALIA | CHAMBER OF

COMMERCE NORTHERN TERRITORY | NEW SOUTH WALES BUSINESS CHAMBER | TASMANIAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

AND INDUSTRY | VICTORIAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

MEMBER NATIONAL INDUSTRY ASSOCIATIONS ACCORD – HYGIENE, COSMETIC AND SPECIALTY PRODUCTS

INDUSTRY | AIR CONDITIONING & MECHANICAL CONTRACTORS’ ASSOCIATION | ANIMAL MEDICINES AUSTRALIA |

ASSOCIATION OF FINANCIAL ADVISERS | ASSOCIATION OF INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS OF NSW | AUSTRALIA ARAB

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE & INDUSTRY | AUSTRALIAN AUTOMOTIVE DEALER ASSOCIATION | AUSTRALIAN BEVERAGES

COUNCIL | AUSTRALIAN DENTAL ASSOCIATION | AUSTRALIAN DENTAL INDUSTRY ASSOCIATION | AUSTRALIAN

FEDERATION OF EMPLOYERS & INDUSTRIES | AUSTRALIAN GIFT & HOMEWARES ASSOCIATION | AUSTRALIAN HOTELS

ASSOCIATION | AUSTRALIAN INSTITUTE OF CREDIT MANAGEMENT | AUSTRALIAN MADE CAMPAIGN LIMITED |

AUSTRALIAN MEAT PROCESSOR CORPORATION | AUSTRALIAN MINES AND METALS ASSOCIATION | AUSTRALIAN

MOBILE TELECOMMUNICATIONS ASSOCIATION | AUSTRALIAN PAINT MANUFACTURERS’ FEDERATION | AUSTRALIAN

RECORDING INDUSTRY ASSOCIATION | PHONOGRAPHIC PERFORMANCE COMPANY OF AUSTRALIA | AUSTRALIAN

RESTRUCTURING INSOLVENCY & TURNAROUND ASSOCIATION | AUSTRALIAN RETAILERS ASSOCIATION | AUSTRALIAN

SELF MEDICATION INDUSTRY | AUSTRALIAN STEEL INSTITUTE | AUSTRALIAN TOURISM INDUSTRY COUNCIL |

AUSTRALIAN VETERINARY ASSOCIATION | BOATING INDUSTRY ASSOCIATION | BUS INDUSTRY CONFEDERATION |

BUSINESS COUNCIL OF CO-OPERATIVES AND MUTUALS | CARAVAN INDUSTRY ASSOCIATION OF AUSTRALIA | CEMENT

CONCRETE & AGGREGATES AUSTRALIA | CHEMISTRY AUSTRALIA | CHIROPRACTORS’ ASSOCIATION OF AUSTRALIA |

CONSULT AUSTRALIA | COUNCIL OF PRIVATE HIGHER EDUCATION | CRUISE LINES INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION

AUSTRALAISA | CUSTOMER OWNED BANKING ASSOCIATION | DIRECT SELLING ASSOCIATION | EXHIBITION & EVENT

ASSOCIATION OF AUSTRALASIA | FINANCIAL PLANNING ASSOCIATION OF AUSTRALIA | FITNESS AUSTRALIA |

FRANCHISEE FEDERATION AUSTRALIA | HOUSING INDUSTRY ASSOCIATION | LARGE FORMAT RETAIL ASSOCIATION |

LIVE PERFORMANCE AUSTRALIA | MASTER BUILDERS AUSTRALIA | MASTER PLUMBERS’ & MECHANICAL SERVICES

ASSOCIATION OF AUSTRALIA | MEDICAL TECHNOLOGY ASSOCIATION OF AUSTRALIA | MEDICINES AUSTRALIA |

NATIONAL AUTOMOTIVE LEASING AND SALARY PACKAGING ASSOCIATION | NATIONAL DISABILITY SERVICES |

NATIONAL ELECTRICAL AND COMMUNICATIONS ASSOCIATION | NATIONAL EMPLOYMENT SERVICE ASSOCIATION |

NATIONAL FIRE INDUSTRY ASSOCIATION | NATIONAL RETAIL ASSOCIATION | NATIONAL ROADS AND MOTORISTS’

ASSOCIATION | NORA | NSW HIRE CAR ASSOCIATION | NSW TAXI COUNCIL | OUTDOOR MEDIA ASSOCIATION |

PHARMACY GUILD OF AUSTRALIA | PRINTING INDUSTRIES ASSOCIATION OF AUSTRALIA | RECRUITMENT & CONSULTING

SERVICES ASSOCIATION | RESTAURANT & CATERING AUSTRALIA | SCREEN PRODUCERS AUSTRALIA | THE TAX

INSTITUTE | THINK BRICK AUSTRALIA | VICTORIAN AUTOMOBILE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE