South Australia has been named the top state for business in Australia, according to the Business Council of Australia’s latest Regulation Rumble report. This is the third consecutive year that the state has held the top position, showcasing its competitive tax, regulatory, and planning landscapes for business operations.
The report showed that South Australia excels in several key areas, including having the most competitive payroll tax system, which benefits both large employers and small, growing businesses. In terms of property costs and licensing, the state also ranks highly, making it an attractive destination for business investment and development.
The state’s planning system was noted for its superior performance in 2025, offering consistency, certainty, and efficiency that stood out nationally. This reliable framework provides a clear path for businesses to follow, contributing to the state’s overall favourable environment.
Peter Malinauskas, Premier of South Australia, shared, “We are a pro-business Labor Government with a desire to get our state moving. The approach is delivering real results, in a way our state is not accustomed to. There is a real momentum in our economy, and enormous opportunity ahead of us.
“This doesn’t happen by accident. It happens because we have a strong, stable, reliable government. It happens because we have competitive tax rates, consistent regulation, and a clear planning regime.”
The Business Council of Australia’s chief executive, Bran Black, added, “This report shines a light on what’s working across Australia, and it’s about encouraging healthy competition between jurisdictions to raise living standards by increasing business investment.
“South Australia is leading the nation and shows us that cutting unnecessary red tape and designing efficient regulations is not just good for business — it’s good for workers and communities.”
The growing business environment in South Australia also saw a top ranking on the Housing Industry Association’s Housing Policy Scoreboard, where it also holds the premier position in the country. This accolade, along with the findings from the Business Council of Australia, portrays a comprehensive and robust economic landscape in South Australia that favours business growth and development.
With the rankings, it’s clear to see that South Australia is to leading by example, and remains an attractive hub for business investment, not just in theory but through substantiated and consistent achievements in creating a favourable business ecosystem.
More News
