28 July 2017
Sydney, 26 July 2017: The Australian Bankers’ Association Chief Executive Anna Bligh today called on Western Australian Premier Mark McGowan not to introduce a tax on banks in September’s state budget.
“A tax on banks would be dangerous for Western Australia’s economy,” Ms Bligh said.
“Just like South Australia, WA badly needs jobs and investment. A move like this would significantly impact the West Australian economy at a time it needs support.
“Banks are talking with all sides of politics in Western Australia to emphasise that a tax on business would be the worst thing for their economy and the people of WA,” she said.
“The likelihood of South Australia’s tax on banks is already doubtful with widespread opposition from the business community, the people of South Australia and Members of Parliament.
“Almost half of voters in key marginal seats in South Australia are opposed to the tax because they think it will increase costs for South Australians, affect investment in the state and reduce South Australia’s competitiveness compared to other states that don’t have the tax.
“If the tax is defeated in South Australia, WA would be the only state to distance itself from job creation and investment,” Ms Bligh said.
“The ABA calls on Premier McGowan not to introduce a bank tax and send a strong signal that WA is focused on growing its economy.”
ENDSContact: Stephanie Arena 0477 470 677
Latest news
The Australian Banking Association welcomes the release today of a new report from the National Anti-Scam Centre showing that industry and government measures to tackle scams are protecting more Australians. The latest quarterly report shows that overall scam losses in the 2023 December quarter were down by 43% compared to the same quarter last year. … Read more »
The Australian Banking Association welcomes the Federal Government’s decision to introduce a financial sector regulatory initiatives grid. ABA CEO Anna Bligh said providing a clearer picture of the future regulatory landscape would allow the Government to implement policy initiatives whilst at the same time reducing the compliance burden on industry. “Banks recognise that regulation is vitally important… Read more »
This International Women’s Day, the Australian Banking Association has reaffirmed the sector’s unwavering commitment to protecting women’s financial safety and security. In Australia, one in six women will experience financial abuse over the course of their lifetime. The 2024 IWD theme “Count Her In” is an opportunity to talk about the types of financial abuse… Read more »