Chief executive Debra Murphy said local business leaders were keen to understand what it will mean for their business.

And with a Federal Budget looking interest was high in next Friday’s executive lunch. More than 200 people have already registered.

“Reforms and concepts have been floated by the Government, then subsequently dismissed, then mooted as potentially being in this year’s budget again,’’ Ms Murphy said.

“There are high levels of intrigue around this year’s budget, with the final outcomes much anticipated by the business community. Will this year be like last year - a small business budget?  Will the Illawarra see any announcements on much-needed infrastructure or the steel industry?”

Next Friday’s lunch is about gaining insights. The chamber has been working with KPMG and Commonwealth Bank to analyse what the budget means for the region.

The annual budget lunch will be held at 12 on May 6 at the Novotel Wollongong Northbeach. Keynote speaker is Commonwealth Bank senior market analyst and media commentator Savanth Sebastian. KPMG’s David Apolo will help businesses understand the impact of the tax announcements on their bottom line and Anthony Mason will look at what’s trending on social media. Registrations close for the May 6 Federal Budget Lunch close on Monday at https://events.illawarrabusiness.com.au/Detail/EVE1604701.