The purpose of the Business Council of Australia (BCA) is to ensure the country is economically strong to support a fair, free and inclusive society for all Australians. This year, in 2023, as the BCA enters its 40th year of advocating in the national interest, this mission remains as relevant today as it was on day one.

The BCA believes that achieving a more resilient, productive and competitive economy requires successful, well-run businesses that create meaningful jobs and inclusive work environments which reflect and are accountable to the broader Australian community.

For the past five years, the BCA has been speaking with Australians about their hopes and ambitions for the country. Despite the pandemic, extreme weather events and geopolitical tensions, they are overwhelmingly optimistic about the potential of our nation. That said, they worry that we are not on the right path and will let our opportunities pass by – they want change that will improve not only their lives, but those of their children and grandchildren.

This document is the BCA’s contribution to Australia’s public policy agenda, at a time when the country faces global uncertainty and the urgent need to decarbonise our economy, and is witnessing other nations embarking on policies that risk shifting investment and activity away from our shores.

Australia has tremendous endowments including our natural resources, skilled and educated population, stable institutions, and proximity to the emerging Asian markets that will drive new forms of prosperity.