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

It is with deep sadness that the Victorian Chamber of Commerce pays tribute to esteemed former politician, the Hon. Simon Crean. A highly respected figure in Australian politics, Mr Crean made significant contributions to the nation, leaving an indelible mark on the economic landscape of Victoria and the entire country.

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.

Melbourne has been ranked as Australia’s top city and third globally in the 2023 Global Liveability Index, marking a steady rise as the city returns to normality from Covid-19.

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.

The Winter Night Market encapsulates Queen Victoria Market’s ongoing reinvention as one of Melbourne’s most important cultural hubs, continuously evolving more than 145 years after first opening.

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.

The Victorian Government has announced vehicle registration will be free for eligible apprentices from July 1, 2023.

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.

The Australian Government’s latest data reveals skills shortages remain across many sectors and in regional areas. If your business needs to fill its skills gap and future-proof its workforce, the Victorian Chamber can help through a range of training programs, staffing solutions, workplace support and more.

Youth Activating Youth (YAY) and Victorian Chamber teamed up with Jobs Victoria on an internship program to tackle the skills shortage while empowering multicultural youth in the jobs market.

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.