The task of framing the 2023-24 budget will be a delicate balance of complexities, unlike others in the past. Treasurer Jim Chalmers is confronting complicated global conditions on a number of fronts as well as the need to address budget repair, raising the spectre of politically difficult spending restraint. Withdrawal of stimulus in the post-COVID-19o0 environment, rising interest rates, runaway energy prices and higher inflation has triggered a challenging situation for government and business alike. While rear-guard action is fought against these unfavourable circumstances, what capacity remains for advancing a stronger Australian future?

The roadshow arrived in Sydney with Treasurer Jim Chalmers delivering his ACCI and Business NSW Post-Budget Address at the Museum of Contemporary Art.

Dr Chalmers told the audience that he woke up on Wednesday morning not thinking of the budget, but what’s next – the new well-being framework and the employment white paper. And the Mid-Year Economic and Fiscal Outlook will follow shortly after, along with a referendum vote on the Voice.

He said he was proud of his January essay in The Monthly that advocated for a new values-based capitalism – and was proud of the level of engagement that it provoked.

The treasurer then joined ACCI CEO, Andrew McKellar for a Q&A.

Thank you to Dr Sherman Chan, chief economist, Business NSW and Amy Auster, chief economist and insights officer, PwC Australia for their economic update and to Anthea Williams for moderating.

ACCI also acknowledges our event sponsor Chris de Bruin, chief executive – consumer and business banking from Westpac Group and, for moving the vote of thanks.

More photos from the day’s event can be viewed here.

Event details

Date | Tuesday, May 16, 2023

Time | 12.30pm – 2.30pm Luncheon

Dress | Business attire

Location | Museum of Contemporary Art

Address | Harbourside Room, Museum of Contemporary Art Australia, 140 George St, The Rocks NSW 2000