Peter Dutton vows to return entertainment expenses to small businesses’ tax deductions
Peter Dutton wants to shout Australians a free lunch — promising to return entertainment expenses to small businesses’ tax deductions, in a bid to support local pubs, cafes and restaurants.
Under the proposed Liberal election policy, to be announced by the Opposition Leader in Brisbane on Sunday, businesses would be able to claim up to $20,000 in entertainment expenses on their tax each year.
The benefit would be limited to businesses of a turnover up to $10 million.
But, unlike the long lunches of the 1970s, alcohol will be excluded from the taxpayer-funded menu.
“Hospitality is a huge part of the economy and yet like so many businesses at the moment, they are hurting under Labor,” Mr Dutton told The Australian.
“Skyrocketing electricity, gas and insurance prices. A local coffee shop creates important local jobs, but they are also spending money buying supplies from other local businesses.
“We want other small businesses to spend more at their local cafes, clubs and pubs. And if they can take their employees to the venues and pay for a meal as part of a milestone sales event, or acknowledgment for their hard work then it is a win win for both businesses.
“It will help retention and provide a reward to employees.”
As the early start to the election year heats up, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese will on Sunday commit half a billion dollars towards a road upgrade to connect Liverpool to the proposed Western Sydney International Airport.
Mr Albanese said Western Sydney could become the “gateway to the world”.
“We want it to thrive as the engine room for jobs, economic growth and opportunity,” Mr Albanese said.
“This half a billion dollars’ worth of new funding from the Australian government is part of our commitment to delivering more resilient infrastructure for all Australians.”
More to come
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