Mr Gary Banks
Chair
Regulation Taskforce
PO Box 282
BELCONNEN  ACT  2616
Dear Mr Banks
ACCORD Australasia is the peak national industry association that represents the manufacturers and marketers of formulated consumer, cosmetic, hygiene and specialty products, their raw material suppliers, and service providers.
With $3 billion plus in annual product sales (ex-factory), the formulated consumer, cosmetic, hygiene and specialty products industry is a significant part of a prosperous Australian economy.  We are a dynamic and growing industry, employing Australians and - through our industrial and institutional sector - supplying products essential for Australian businesses, manufacturing firms, government enterprises, public institutions, farmers and consumers.  Our industry has more than 50 manufacturing operations throughout Australia and member companies include large global consumer product manufacturers to small dynamic Australian-owned businesses.
ACCORD, welcomes the opportunity to provide the attached submission for the Regulation Taskforce’s consideration.
The annual growth in regulation for all Australian jurisdictions has been estimated by industry to be 10%.  This is more than twice the rate of Australia’s economic growth.  This regulatory growth comes at a cost, much of which is passed directly onto business, which in turn is passed onto the consumer.  A more efficient regulatory system will deliver benefits to the entire community though lower costs creating a business operating environment which will stimulate growth, create better employment opportunities and foster enhanced competitiveness and innovation.
ACCORD, on behalf of its member companies, has a specific and direct interest in regulation reform processes which will deliver real and meaningful outcomes for our members resulting in reduced compliance costs and red tape reduction.  ACCORD will continue to work collaboratively with the Regulation Taskforce and the Australian Government to improve the regulatory environment for our members.
Yours sincerely

Unsigned for electronic transmission

Bronwyn Capanna
Executive Director

28 November 2005

Reducing the regulatory burden on business

28 November 2005