Business chief Heather Ridout has thrown her support for the federal government’s flood recovery package announced today, but reiterated the need for transparency and oversight.
“Given the extraordinary circumstances, industry can live with the federal government’s flood recovery package, including the levy, but remains concerned about the oversight, transparency and accountability of the program,” said the Australian Industry Group chief.
Mrs Ridout, an appointee to the government’s floods recovery business taskforce, said the package of measures announced today for flood affected communities strikes a reasonable balance between spending cuts and revenue raising.
But while the temporary nature of the levy is appropriate, she said “we remain unconvinced about the rigour of the oversight process.”
“Transparency and oversight are essential and regular reports should be given to taxpayers on spending on all flood recovery projects. We need to be clear on why projects are being selected, how the money is being spent and whether it is being spent well.”
“The doubling of the relocation assistance for moving to Queensland and the expediting of 457 visa approvals for flood related work will add to local capacity to deal with the rebuilding effort.
“However, in terms of support for addressing skill shortages and skills development more will clearly need to be done and we will be looking to the Federal Budget for further action.
“In terms of the cuts to green programs, Ai Group has long said that inefficient climate-related spending should be curtailed, particularly if a carbon price is to be imposed. By shaving, slowing and cutting several programs with high abatement costs and low value for money, the Commonwealth has made a step in the right direction.
Mrs Ridout said the states and territories have similar ‘inefficient’ green programs, and they should take similar action.
[Source: au.ibtimes.com]
