OBPR Red Tape Reduction Report receives overwhelming endorsement from Queensland businesses

Thursday 1 November | Categories: Red Tape

The Chamber of Commerce and Industry Queensland (CCIQ) has today welcomed the Office of Best Practice Regulation (OBPR) interim report on Measuring and Reducing the Burden of Regulation, saying that it represents the best possible outcome for Queensland businesses and the state economy.

CCIQ General Manager for Advocacy Nick Behrens applauded the OBPR for making the significant recommendations vitally needed by Queensland businesses.

CCIQ has no hesitation in endorsing the report in its entirety.

"This is a significant outcome for Queensland Businesses who have waited far too long for a real commitment to reducing the cost and burden of regulatory compliance which continues to be the number one barrier to business competitiveness and growth in Queensland," said Mr Behrens.

“If the OBPR recommendations are adopted by the State Government in their entirely, CCIQ firmly believes that Queensland will lead the way in being the most attractive and cost competitive State to do business."

In particular, CCIQ is very pleased that a thorough approach to measuring the existing burden of regulation, setting a net reduction target and a zero-net growth policy based on the British Columbia approach have been recommended.

This is consistent with the Red Tape Reduction Action Plan advocated by CCIQ in our 2009 and 2011 Blueprints.

“The British Columbian Government delivered a 47 per cent reduction in the cost and burden of regulation over a three year period and accordingly their approach received overwhelming support from BC businesses."

CCIQ is confident that by adopting the same approach but adapted to our State’s circumstances, Queensland’s regulatory reform agenda can enjoy the same success and support from the business community.

CCIQ was very pleased to have been given an opportunity to provide a submission and represent the views of Queensland businesses which have been overwhelmingly reflected in the interim report and OBPR recommendations.

CCIQ continues to support the Queensland Government and their commitment to reducing red tape in Queensland by 20 per cent and looks forward to working closely with the Assistant Minister Deb Frecklington, OBPR and other agencies to deliver on this commitment.

A copy of the OBPR interim report is available here.

CCIQ’s submission is available here.