Business leaders say energy is now their leading concern as soaring electricity prices have taken their toll on many of Australia's major sectors.

This is a revelation from a fresh report by software accounting firm MYOB which surveyed 526 companies.

More of those questioned in the survey said energy prices were concerning compared to any other singular category.

When asked what the biggest challenges facing the business owners were, 30 per cent listed energy while inflation came in second with 29 per cent mentioning the price rises were a challenge.

At least 26 per cent of respondents said interest rates and high competition were challenges while 25 per cent said employment costs were a problem for their business.

Paul Robson, the chief executive of MYOB, said soaring power prices ha

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