Queensland Nationals Senator Barnaby Joyce said today “Questions remain regarding which small businesses are to benefit from the new collective bargaining notification process. A $3 million transaction threshold has been set, but this will exclude many small businesses. A new threshold of $10 million will ensure that all genuine small businesses will be covered by the notification process. Small businesses not covered by a $10 million threshold should be given a higher amount.
“A higher threshold is also needed for small businesses not covered by the $3 million threshold, who are the victims of unconscionable conduct by big business. A new threshold of $10 million can be implemented immediately under s 51AC of the Trade Practices Act and would benefit small businesses enormously.
“Stronger laws against predatory pricing are also needed urgently by small business. It is nearly four years since the High Court’s decision on s 46 and no cases have been taken by the ACCC to court in that time. We need a clear timeline for a stronger s46. Promises of consultation are only the start - small businesses need to know if and when they will get a stronger s 46.
“Small businesses need more trade practices changes and these changes will build on the modest changes already secured on their behalf.

Ends