Julia Gillard’s government remains clueless about addressing the needs of business.

The results from the March quarter Dun and Bradstreet National Business Expectations Survey show another downturn and yet more pessimism.

According to Dr Duncan Ironmonger, Dun and Bradstreet’s chief economic consultant, “the latest D&B survey reveals a sharp reduction in business expectations to well below their 10 year averages.”

Despite some positive business conditions, employment expectations are particularly affected.

Throughout the March quarter more firms decreased staff numbers than increased. Employment expectations are so low they have entered negative territory for the first time in 2 years and are 6 points below the 10 year average index.

As if this wasn’t enough, sales, profits and capital investment outlooks all featured below their ten year average as well.

“These results are indicative of the economic uncertainty created by this government,” said Senator Scott Ryan, Shadow Parliamentary Secretary for Small Business and Fair Competition.

“Business employment prospects are a leading indicator – this is a warning sign that the government cannot take business confidence for granted.”

The D&B report also highlights the need for swift government action on Small Business Dispute Resolution services. Over 50 per cent of businesses in the March quarter experienced negative impacts from delayed payments – the number one cause of small business disputes.

“Nick Sherry needs to respond to this report and get serious about delivering real plans with real budgets and real timelines for small businesses,” Senator Ryan said.