Parliamentary Updates

6 February 2025

1. She highlighted the important contributions the more than 8000 small businesses in Warringah make to their community, and recognised that they are struggling under the pressures of subsequent rental increases, rising supply costs, lower consumer spending and difficulties finding and retaining staff.
2. She supported the Bill's efforts to add to the push for a rapid phase-in of electric vehicles (EVs) in Australia, particularly at a time when EVs have fallen to their lowest proportion of new cars purchased in more than two years (Feb 5, AFR).
3. She welcomed the Bill's focus on closing tax loopholes and restoring integrity in the tax system, however highlighting that it is critical that the Parliament commits to not make it disproportionately harder for small businesses to survive as a result of doing so. Zali stressed that in the current global economic climate, "businesses need certainty" and the Government can play a crucial role in establishing this certainty; recognising that "[s]mall businesses are the backbone of our economy".
4. To improve the proposed Bill, Zali proposed an amendment to increase the Instant Asset Tax Write-off from $20,000 to $50,000 to enable small businesses to invest now for their future and the benefit of Australian communities.