Positive push

AUSTRALIAN businesses are remaining positive in the face of an uncertain world economy,

A National Survey of Business expectations by the Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry records a positive outlook for general business conditions, sales revenue and business investment.

The good outlook is also backed by national Australia Bank and Westpac surveys, which show both strong business and consumer sentiment.

But the ACCI survey did show signs that the business community was expecting a drop-off in the outlook for exports and employment.

“The negative employment data indicate the upturn has not yet reached into this crucial area of performance,” ACCI acting CEO Lyndon Rowe said.

But the ANZ job advertising rates released on Monday show jobs advertised have reached their highest level in almost 12 months, jumping 12.5 per cent in January – the second consecutive rise.