A leading businessman wants staff shortages to be at the forefront of the budget as the unemployment rate is tipped to drop further.

The federal budget is expected to deliver cash payments and a cut to the fuel excise, with the unemployment rate set to drop to 3.75 per cent by September this year.

Venues NSW Chairman Tony Shepherd told Ben Fordham businesses across the country are struggling to find workers.

He said 20 per cent of the catering staff at a recent event at the SCG failed to show up.

“It’s just impossible to get labour.”

Press PLAY below to hear the full interview

Image: Getty