BCA has lost its punch, claims ex-Woolies boss Roger Corbett

Former Woolworths chief executive Roger Corbett has lashed the Business Council of Australia, describing its performance as ‘appalling’.

Former Woolworths chief executive Roger Corbett. Picture: Hollie Adams

Former Woolworths chief executive Roger Corbett has lashed the Business Council of Australia, describing its performance as “appalling”.

After BCA chief executive Jennifer Westacott urged corporate leaders to do more in selling pro-business policies to the community, Mr Corbett said the body had “lost its punch” since Michael Chaney stood down as president in 2014.

“As a past member of the BCA, I am very disappointed with the Business Council’s performance, particularly in the past few years. Appalling,” said Mr Corbett, a prominent opponent of same-sex marriage.

“The BCA and the Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry are the two bodies that have represented business to government and have also done a lot of the heavy research work and presented thoughtful and informative papers to government to consider on matters of the economy. That’s where their prime interests and activity should be.”

But Ms Westacott yesterday won support for her comments that business leaders were welcome to talk about social issues but should do more to sell the benefits of economic reform.

“Many companies feel very strongly about certain issues and their employees expect them to do that. And they should do that. What we also need to make sure is that business is still singing the virtue of being successful,” she said. Former Transfield Services chairman Tony Shepherd, also a former BCA president, said: “Her comments on focusing on economic performance rather than virtue signalling was a good, strong message.”

Liberal MP Jason Falinski said it was a “sad reflection” on business leaders they need “reminding to stand up for customers, shareholders and employees”.

Liberal MP Tim Wilson urged business figures to “skill up” and join the debate around business regulation.