The carbon tax is a reality that Australian business can no longer avoid.  With the Federal Government’s ‘Clean Energy Future’ package coming into force on 1 July, it’s crucial that employers are prepared for the impacts the new legislation will have on their business operations.

When the carbon tax takes effect, small to medium-sized enterprise (SMEs) will not be directly taxed on their carbon emissions, nor will they have to report or monitor their electricity use. This may come as a relief to small businesses contemplating how to cope with the scheme. However, SMEs will be susceptible to price rises from carbon intensive purchases and will need to prepare for the introduction of the tax on 1 July.

The aim of the Federal Government’s Clean Energy Future package is to reduce emissions by 5 per cent based on 2000 levels by 2020. The package will allow Australia to begin reducing emissions, develop and foster new technologies in renewable energy and encourage energy efficiency.

Small and medium-sized businesses are reporting a lack of clarity around the new laws, particularly as they relate to their own costs and profitability. One of the key issues created by the carbon tax is who exactly it will affect and how they will be affected. There has been much pointing of the finger at big business as the ones to pick up the bill, but many SMEs believe the carbon tax will impact their business financially. They’re right. The carbon tax can’t be ignored. In order to survive, compete and grow in a carbon-constrained economy, understanding the carbon tax is essential.

During April and May, VECCI will be conducting a series of briefings on the carbon tax.
Use this opportunity to learn more about the impact of a carbon price on your business and how your business can succeed in a low carbon economy.

The state wide briefings will cover:

• The impacts of the carbon tax – preparing and protecting your business from 1 July.
• A plain-English explanation of the carbon tax and the ‘Clean Energy Future’ package.
• Simple ways SMEs can survive and be profitable in a carbon-constrained economy.
• How to access government assistance, initiatives and grants to help your business prosper.

Visit the VECCI website to register. If you can’t make it to the briefings, or need practical sustainability assistance ASAP, VECCI’s Sustainability Services can make workplace visits to help you deal with issues quickly and effectively. Call 03 8662 5196 or visit VECCI Sustainability.