Forgotten Australians 'falling behind'

Australia's "forgotten people" are failing to benefit from the nation's economic growth and risk falling further behind if drastic action isn't taken, a new report warns.

Prominent businessman Tony Shepherd is spearheading a review into shoring up Australia's future through incentivising taxes, accountable government, affordable energy, open trade and an imaginative and creative market.

"Change can only be achieved if the community understands the problems and accepts the solutions," Mr Shepherd said on Monday, warning of declining jobs, low wage growth and unaffordable energy if the country fails to act.