Page MP Janelle Saffin has already approached the new Minister for Small Business, Senator Mark Arbib, about a visit to the electorate.
“I have been talking to Minister Arbib’s office this week about some issues of concern to our local small businesses and I’m keen to have a meeting with the minister at the earliest opportunity.
“The regional manager of the NSW Business Chamber, John Murray, has publicly questioned why the Small Business portfolio is not part of Cabinet.
“There are almost 2 million active small businesses in Australia, employing more than 5 million people, and the sector has grown by 37 per cent since 2003.
“I agree small business deserves a high profile, and I’ve been lobbying in Canberra for the establishment of a National Small Business Commissioner or an equivalent position, to give small business additional clout.
“This is something I’ll be raising with Minister Arbib, and I’m confident he will be a very effective Minister for Small Business, regardless of whether it is a cabinet position.
“I’ve extended an invitation to Minister Arbib to come to Page early in 2012.
“The Minister’s office has also suggested that the Minister have a meeting with John Murray and me, once Mr Arbib is settled into the job.
“Mr Murray has some great ideas for boosting our local business sector and I’ve been discussing a number of proposals with him, and am keen for him to take these up with the Minister.
“We have around 11,000 small businesses in Page, and I am keen for Mr Arbib to visit so he can have a clear understanding of our unique local business opportunities, as well the challenges faced by the sector here.
“In 2008 and 2010 the then Minister for Small Business, Craig Emerson, visited Page for forums and meetings with local business people, and I’d say we are due another ministerial business forum.