Catania welcomes first step in establishing WA's first ever Small Business Commissioner
Author: Vincent Catania
Published on: 17-March-2011
Member for North West, Vincent Catania, today welcomed the introduction of legislation into Parliament to establish a Small Business Commissioner in Western Australia.
The Small Business and Retail Shop Legislation Amendment Bill 2011 was introduced into State Parliament this week by the Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Small Business, Liza Harvey.
Mr Catania said that he was confident that the appointment of a Small Business Commissioner will enhance a competitive and fair operating environment in WA and provide an effective means of resolving business-to-business disputes through alternative dispute resolution.
“The commissioner will provide a low-cost, non-litigious way of resolving business disputes,” Mr Catania said.
“The Commissioner will be a valuable asset to small businesses in my electorate of North West .”
“It is another demonstration of the Liberal National State Government’s commitment to small business.”
Small Business Minister Simon O’Brien said that while it is modelled on the successful Victorian commissioner, the expanded capabilities of the new WA commissioner represent a significant improvement.
“The Small Business Commissioner will be established within the Small Business Development Corporation (SBDC) and replace the position of the SBDC Managing Director,” he said.
“Overall, the new commissioner will enhance the powers and functions of the SBDC and increase the range of services available for WA’s small business owners and operators.
“The drafting of the Bill has been meticulous, involving extensive consultation, and as extended trading hours have already commenced, it is hoped the Bill will be passed without delay.”
It is envisaged that the model for the Western Australian Small Business Commissioner will include educative, advisory, investigative and mediation services, together with the existing advocacy and policy functions of the SBDC.
Mr Catania called on the Opposition to support the Bill, to ensure its passage is not delayed to the detriment of small business in our community.
