Earlier this month, we elected our new Central Coast Regional Advisory Council. I would like to take this opportunity to both thank our outgoing President, Rod Dever for his time and leadership of the Council, and for representing the Central Coast Business Community at the State Council meetings.
Additionally, congratulations to all of the elected and reallocated Regional Advisory Councillors, particularly our newly elected President, Frank Sammut. Frank has big shoes to fill, but he will still have the support of Rod, being that Rod is remaining on the Council as Immediate Past President.
Not to mention the support of our re-elected Vice President, Matthew Wales. Keep a close eye on my LinkedIn page as I have recently interviewed Frank on his vision for the region and the Council, and I will also be conducting interviews with the rest of the Council over time for all the business community to engage with the Council.
The most recent business conditions survey has now been released. Business confidence across NSW and indeed the Central Coast is strong on the back of increasing sales revenue, however, these gains are being eroded by record high operating costs according to the latest Business Conditions Survey.
It is no surprise that this significant increase to doing business is because of the soaring energy prices.
Whilst business is already doing a lot to reduce energy costs with almost two thirds (64%) of survey respondents reporting they had negotiated a better deal with their provider, and implemented energy saving projects, costs remain too high.
Governments need to recognise the impact that high energy prices are having on business, and should be implementing a package of measures to ease cost pressures in the short term.
As I write this newsletter, we are a week out from the Central Coast Business Economics Breakfast (with thanks to our Major Partner - UON Central Coast).
At this breakfast, we will hear from our special guest, the Premier of New South Wales - Gladys Berejiklian. For those who cannot attend, I look forward to updating you all on how the event goes.
Finally, the excitement is starting to ramp up with the New South Wales Business Chamber State Annual Awards only around the corner.
November 17, some of our finest business representatives from the Central Coast will go head to head against the best of the best the state of New South Wales has to offer.
I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again, we are so incredibly proud of all the businesses here in the region, and we wish our Regional winners and State finalist the best luck in the business awards November 17.
Daniel Farmer is Regional Manager - Central Coast NSW Business Chamber.
