I hope this update finds you well. It’s a privilege to be Acting Chief Executive of the Victorian Chamber as we’re in the midst of NAIDOC Week celebration, and I would like to acknowledge the traditional owners of the land on which we work, live, and operate our businesses. It is a time to reflect on the rich history, culture, and achievements of our First Nations people, and to renew our commitment to reconciliation and inclusivity.

Yesterday the Victorian Chamber proudly released our Regulatory Reform Policy Paper. This paper provides the pragmatic next steps for Victoria’s Regulatory Reform Agenda through four significant policy reform recommendations. Adoption of these recommendations would enhance productivity, competitiveness and the overall business environment in the state.

EOFY is the perfect time to review your business performance and set your goals for the coming year. Did you achieve what you planned this financial year? Look ahead to set new goals and re-align your business focus.

CSIRO is boosting Australia’s advanced manufacturing capability through free research and development support to businesses developing new products or services.

I hope this update finds you all in good spirits despite the icy winds pushing through the state! It is a privilege to be filling in for Victorian Chamber Chief Executive Paul Guerra. Our CEO is currently with a small contingent in Geneva for the 2023 World Chambers Congress, as Melbourne prepares to host the WCC in 2025.

Making a tax-deductible donation will ensure Guide Dogs Victoria continues its vital work in matching people with low vision or blindness with their perfect Guide Dog.

Congratulations to all the amazing Australians who have been celebrated as part of the King’s Birthday 2023 Honours List. Not just the famous faces, but also the quiet achievers of Victoria, who dedicate their lives to improving their communities and outcomes for the less fortunate.

Office-based businesses seeking assistance with the challenge of reducing emissions can explore CitySwitch, a free to join, national program delivered locally by participating councils.

It’s been an interesting week, and probably one that will have most business owners and leaders wondering “What next?”

Industry experts give their tips on how small and large enterprises can use Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) to create and sustain long-term value. 

Social Traders are trailblazers of ‘business for good’ through social enterprise and social procurement.

It was great to catch up with the Agent General Victoria to China, Brett Stephens earlier in the week to discuss the investment, sourcing and exporting opportunities for Victorian businesses. I certainly heard the optimism from Brett about what the opening can mean for business in our State, and we will be looking to progress that once Brett returns to China next week.

Victorian Treasurer Tim Pallas handed down the State Budget on Tuesday afternoon and I’m sure many of you went straight to how it would impact your business, positive or negative.

The .au domain has recently been recognised as one of the most popular and trusted domains globally, despite Australia’s relatively small population.

Established in 1986, CareSuper is an award-winning Industry SuperFund that today services more than 220,000 members Australia-wide.

As business awaits next week’s State Budget, the latest feedback from our members is that regained confidence post-pandemic has waned in the face of tough economic conditions.