A poll of more than 2000 South Australians in key state seats shows deep opposition to the Weatherill Government’s proposed tax on banks and significant community concern about its impact on jobs.

The poll of 2100 South Australians shows that 52 per cent of voters in seven key electorates oppose the tax compared with only 34 per cent who support it. Further, 45 per cent of people believe there will be fewer jobs in the state as a result of the tax. Less than one in ten people think it will lead to more employment.

“This bank tax poll should act as a wake-up call for the South Australian Government. People do not want the SA Government to proceed with this ill-conceived plan,” Australian Bankers’ Association Chief Executive Anna Bligh said.

“Voters are rightly concerned that this tax will negatively affect employment and make the state less competitive at a time when South Australia desperately needs jobs, investment and growth.

“Banks urge the South Australian Government to listen carefully to the community and reconsider the tax plan during the upcoming parliamentary break,” she said.

Polling firm Galaxy* surveyed 2100 people between 3 – 8 August in the seats of Florey, Frome, Giles, Lee, Morialta, Newland and Waite. A results report is attached.

This latest poll follows a survey of 400 small business owners and managers that revealed 65 per cent opposition to the tax plan. More than 80 per cent of the small businesses surveyed said the tax would make South Australia less competitive and around 70 per cent believed it will negatively impact the economy.

ENDS

Contact: Stephanie Arena 0477 470 677 or Nic Frankham 0435 963 913

*Galaxy Research is an Australian­-owned independent company. The methods used by Galaxy have been tested and proven to be accurate at both state and federal elections which has resulted in Galaxy being recognised as the most accurate polling organisation in Australia.

@austbankers

bankers.asn.au