That is, Professor Trevor Cairney recognises that Parramatta has a rightful claim as Sydney’s dual CBD, although North Sydney will continue to shine as a business district with “distinctive needs”.
“Global cities typically have more than one CBD and generally these have different business mixes,” the new president of the State’s peak business body said.
“The skewed nature of our city with major north-south and western spread requires the development and connection of major centres like Parramatta, Liverpool, Bankstown, Penrith, Campbelltown and Castle Hill.
"This is because of the significant proportion of our population and businesses are some distance from the CBD and North Sydney. The Chamber retains our commitment to improving transportation connections and business support across the city and in fact across the State.”
Prof Cairney said challenges for small businesses included over-regulation, tax pressures, red tape, difficulty obtaining finance for expansion, global challenges that can make running a business difficult, especially for importers with the low Australian dollar.
“With membership of the Chamber now pushing the 20,000 mark, it is clear that there is a continued need to provide businesses with the support, expertise and representation to continue to grow and prosper,” he said.
“I’m looking forward to the NSW Business Chamber continuing to play its influential role with the policy makers from all sides of politics, without fear or favour.”
Regarding a perceived increase in Chinese investment in Australia, Prof Cairney said that we needed that investment for development.
“Market forces may moderate this investment at some stage but as a growing nation we need to embrace and welcome foreign investment as long as it is in our national interests,” he said.
Prof Cairney, former president of the Sydney Business Chamber, has been a researcher and writer on education, training and regional development.
He has contributed to business and industry in many ways including directorships and chairmanships of various technology-based companies and industry bodies, the judging of industry awards and as an advocate for the economic and social development of Greater Western Sydney.
In his role as CEO of New College, an independent incorporated entity that serves UNSW through the provision of residential accommodation, Profr Cairney is responsible for all operational matters, welfare of residents, stakeholder management and development.
Prof Cairney succeeds Tony Dormer, who will remain on the Board as Immediate Past President.
Nola Watson has been elected deputy president.
