The Abbott government says small business is the “backbone of the economy” but last week the government turned its back on small business. The long awaited competition law reform which includes the so-called “effects test” has been put on ice.

Key members of the government, including Treasurer Joe Hockey, oppose the introduction of an effects test and it appears a small number of big businesses have too much sway over the cabinet. 

But the effects test is simply a provision aimed at leveling up the playing field for small business. It will allow legal redress for small businesses when a big business misuses market power with the purpose or likely effect of substantially lessening competition.

COSBOA and SmartCompany are calling on the government to implement the effects test. We’re asking the government not to succumb to big business pressure to scrap the effects test and to stand up for small businesses.

#StandUpForSmallBiz