The Australian Industry Group (Ai Group) has shown its support for the new Prime Minister, Julie Gilard, saying that she has shown “confidence” and “ease” since her appointment.
Ai Group chief executive, Heather Ridout, congratulated Gillard in an official press notice.
"Julia Gillard has managed to carry a very big Ministerial load with confidence and apparent ease and this will serve her well in taking on the onerous responsibilities of Prime Minister,” Ridout said.
According to Ridout, Ai Group has worked closely with Gilard in the past on issues of “great significance to business such as workplace relations, skills and education”.
"There are a lot of very serious and well-documented issues impacting on business at the heart of today's developments and she will need to resolve these in a very balanced way that serves Australia's long-term national interests,” said Ridout.
"We will be seeking an early meeting with the new Prime Minister to discuss a range of issues, including climate change policy, workplace relations, skills and tax reform.
"Kevin Rudd has steered Australia through the global financial crisis, supporting the businesses and jobs of many Australians, and he should have our gratitude. He has been immensely dedicated to the role of Prime Minister and has worked very hard for Australia.
"Congratulations also to Wayne Swan on his appointment as Deputy Prime Minister. We look forward to continuing to work closely with him.”