Bega Chamber of Commerce and Industry president Mal Barnes said while the budget is “sensible” the government has failed to fully explain their decisions.

“I’m not sure why they’ve focused on small business and not mums and dads,” he said.

The budget was a win for small business, which will enjoy a tax cut from July 1 this year.

While Mr Barnes is pleased to see treasurer Scott Morrison focus on helping small businesses to grow, he said more must be done in terms of infrastructure and reducing inequality – factors he sees as crucial to kick-starting economic growth in the region.

“What makes a comfortable place to live is a low gap between the rich and the poor,” he said.

“Australia is in a great position so the government needs to put more money into infrastructure which leads to more jobs and economic growth.

“Both major parties in recent years have dropped the ball on that.”

Mr Barnes also said innovation and training are key factors to growth in rural economies.

Member for Eden-Monaro, assistant finance minister and former chief executive of the Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry Peter Hendy said small businesses need a tax system that actively supports them.

However, not everyone is pleased by the approach the budget has taken to fulfilling the Coalition catchphrase of “jobs and growth”.

Clean Energy for Eternity founder Matthew Nott said he is disappointed by what he sees as a lack of strong political leadership.

“You can’t have a sensible conversation about jobs and growth without discussing climate change, especially in rural areas like Eden-Monaro,” Dr Nott said.

“We have all the ingredients ready to be a front runner in renewable energy.

“Malcolm Turnbull said we need to reinvigorate the economy and we can’t do that when we rely on the fuels of last century.”

Dr Nott said he was concerned political donations from the fossil fuel industry are influencing federal and state government decisions.

“We have seen very little change to the policies of the Abbott government towards investment in renewable energy,” he said.