PM unveils summit to lift lagging productivity
An economic summit will bring together business, union and other leaders in a bid to lift Australia's lagging productivity.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced a productivity roundtable would be held in August to shape ways to grow the economy during his second term in office.
Leaders from civil society will be invited to attend the summit alongside industry and union representatives.
"We want to build the broadest possible base of support for further economic reform, to drive growth, boost productivity, strengthen the budget and secure the resilience of our economy in a time of global uncertainty," Mr Albanese said in a speech at the National Press Club on Tuesday.
"What we want is a focused dialogue and constructive debate that leads to concrete and tangible actions."
Experts have expressed concern about Australia's lagging rate of productivity, a key economic measure of efficiency and long-term driver of improved living standards.
Mr Albanese said he wanted to see a boost to productivity, alongside other economic indicators.
"We want to build an economy where growth, wages and productivity rise together," he said.
"The starting point for our government is clear. Our plan for economic growth and productivity is about Australians earning more and keeping more of what they earn."
The prime minister also announced Jenny Wilkinson would become the first female Treasury secretary.
Ms Wilkinson, who currently heads up the Finance Department, will replace Steven Kennedy, who will become the country's most senior public servant as head of the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet.
"These outstanding public servants will continue to excel in their service to our nation," Mr Albanese said.
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