By Kat Wong in Canberra

Australian businesses have weathered years of economic storms but the prime minister says the worst may be over in an optimistic pitch for the years ahead.

Anthony Albanese will address business leaders at an Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry dinner in Canberra on Wednesday.

“When we look at our economy today, we can be optimistic that the rewards of that resilience are now in sight,” the prime minister will say.

“There is new cause to hope that the worst is behind us.

“I’ve never been more optimistic about Australia’s future.”

The war in Ukraine and aftershocks from the COVID-19 pandemic had significant impacts on Australian consumers and businesses.

Costs surged, inflation grew and consumers were less willing to spend in the face increasing financial burdens.

But all of this is turning around, thanks in part to the business sector.

“All of you have shared in this national effort,” Mr Albanese says.

“Together, we have navigated a global storm and even in rough seas, we’ve kept an eye on the horizon, dealing with the challenges in front of us, in a way that seeks to anticipate and create a better future for all of us.”

Mr Albanese will be hoping for a warmer reception from business leaders than he received from mining executives.

Following an address to the Minerals Council of Australia in September, its chief executive accused his government of persistent attacks on the resources sector, leaving it feeling “under siege” through a series of restrictive policy interventions.

Financial pressures and economic stability will be key concerns ahead of the federal election, which must be held by May, and the prime minister is keen to show he can usher in an era of business prosperity.

Mr Albanese will spruik a funding boost for the competition watchdog, intended to create a more level playing field for businesses, along with skills and training investments to drive employment and productivity.

The prime minister will seek to differentiate Labor from the opposition, making subtle jabs at the previous government.

“We’ve made it a priority to restore certainty after years of chopping and changing,” he says.