Business confidence in South Australia is once again the weakest in the nation – with the latest NAB Business Survey showing the troubling trend has continued.
In contrast to Tasmania, where trend confidence rose for the month, South Australia remained at the bottom of the table.
Shadow Treasurer, Sam Telfer said this is the fifth report in as many weeks that highlights the growing pressure faced by small businesses in South Australia.
“We’ve seen highly regarded reports from CommSec, NAB, the South Australian Business Chamber and Committee for Adelaide, all pointing to a sluggish economy and weakening confidence,” Mr Telfer said.
“South Australian businesses are doing it tough. They are paying more for their electricity under Labor, and they are also facing skyrocketing water bills.
“Businesses have also pointed to restrictive red tape and imposing taxes as hampering their ability to stay afloat.
“That’s why a Tarzia Liberal Government, if elected in 2026, is committed to providing immediate relief for small business by lifting the payroll tax threshold from $1.5 million to $2.1 million.
“We are also committed to reversing the Malinauskas Government’s tax on water bills, which will not only help small businesses, but will also put more money back in the pockets of South Australian households.
“The Malinauskas Government has been distracted by their failed hydrogen vanity project, while offering no other policy to lower power prices or improve the business environment.
“Local business owners can’t afford to wait any longer for support. The Government needs to be listening to these concerns and do everything they can to ensure businesses stay open and thrive here in South Australia."
(Chart excerpt from NAB Monthly Business Survey April-25)
