CPA Australia encouraged by new Opposition Leader Sussan Ley’s focus on tax policy

CPA Australia CEO Chris Freeland has welcomed new Opposition Leader Sussan Ley’s focus on tax policy and a new economic narrative.

“On behalf of CPA Australia I welcome the election of Australia’s first female Opposition Leader – and the first accountant,” Mr Freeland said. 

“We are especially pleased to hear that Ms Ley and the new Liberal leadership team have confirmed that tax and economic reform will be a core part of its agenda.

“While the federal election campaign was focused on short-term tax sweeteners being offered by the major parties, any substantive debate about genuine tax reform was again kicked into the long grass.

“We have already urged the re-elected Albanese government to use the next parliament as an opportunity to address bracket creep and Australia’s over-dependence on personal income.

“We hope this parliament will finally bring some healthy debate and real action to address these fundamental challenges.”

A former deputy leader, minister in the Abbott, Turnbull and Morrison governments and shadow small business minister, Ms Ley holds a Bachelor of Economics, Master of Taxation Law and a Master of Accounting. Her career experience includes six years with the Australian Tax Office.

Ms Ley recently said she has developed a “great interest” in tax policy while studying her master’s degree in taxation law.

As shadow small business minister, Ms Ley was a guest at the CPA Australia Albury-Wodonga branch last August where she highlighted Australia's continued shortage of accountants and the important role they play in the economy.

Ms Ley told Albury-Wodonga CPA Australia members that while many accounting firms are doing their bit to bring on young people from school and university and ensure they have the experience to meet high professional standards, governments still have a vital role to play in encouraging people into the profession. 

Mr Freeland said: “It’s refreshing to have an accountant in a leadership position in Australian politics. The accounting profession will play an increasingly critical role in Australia’s economic success, supporting the integrity of capital markets while promoting productivity and financial literacy.”

Mr Freeland also congratulated Ted O’Brien on his appointment as Deputy Leader of the Liberal Party.

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