Passage of CGT changes is disappointing for businesses and the economy 

Media Release: 25 June 2026

The Senate’s passage of the federal government’s capital gains tax (CGT) changes is a poor outcome for Australian businesses and the economy, the Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI) says. 

ACCI Chief Executive Officer Andrew McKellar said the legislation locks in higher taxes on business investment. 

“This is a bad outcome for Australian businesses and the economy, driven by a shady deal with the Greens that will come at a cost to growth and jobs,” Mr McKellar said. 

“Business investment underpins economic growth and employment. These changes will inevitably lead to lower investment, and weaker growth and productivity than there otherwise would have been."

Mr McKellar said there were still significant issues that must be addressed in the next round of legislation. 

“The government must now deal with the real-world consequences of these changes, including for critical sectors such as mining exploration and critical minerals, which risk being put at a competitive disadvantage,” he said. 

“There are also serious concerns with the government’s approach to innovation. 

“Innovation occurs across every sector of the economy, and the government must ensure these changes do not further deter business investment.” 

Mr McKellar warned that the proposed tax on discretionary trusts would compound the damage, especially for small and family businesses. 

“Proposals covering discretionary and family trusts are complex, far-reaching, and will create serious challenges for businesses across the economy,” he said. 

“The government should reconsider these measures before locking in further harm to investment and the economy.”