Tasmania leads the nation in business confidence, the latest Sensis Business Index survey has revealed.
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Released on Friday, the Index surveyed 1000 small and medium businesses across Australia.
It found Tasmania’s economy was providing the most positivity.
Three times as many Tasmanians believe the economy is growing 24 per cent – providing a nation-leading score and seven-year high in the state.
Sensis executive general manager James Ciuffetelli said the report demonstrated optimism on the Apple Isle.
He said it was evident in the 25 per cent of Tasmanian business owners that had approached their banks to access additional finance.
This compares to the national average of 10 per cent.
The Index showed national business confidence was steady on 42.
It compares to a Tasmanian score of 30 at the same time last year.
“A favourable business environment, along with healthy sales drove confidence, while worried SMBs had the opposite experience and cited decreasing sales and competitive pressures,” Mr Ciuffetelli said.
“The federal budget was handed down in early May during the survey period, and this was received favourably by Tasmanians, whose approval rating of the federal government went up 21 points to 13.”
It made Tasmania the second most supportive state or territory.
Tasmania Chamber of Commerce and Industry chief executive Michael Bailey said the report demonstrated continuing confidence in the economy.
But he said there was some trepidation around the national economy.
Other findings
- Business support for the Tasmanian Government’s policies improved seven points to 9, making it the third most popular government in the country.
- Those who regard the government positively say it is supportive of small businesses, while the main criticisms were an excessive focus on big businesses and not providing support.