I’d like to begin by congratulating the Allan Government on today’s launch of the State Electricity Commission’s Strategic Plan 2023-2025, set to lead Victoria’s renewable energy transition with a focus on supply, homes and people.

The Victorian Government has launched a new report that charts Victoria’s skills and training sector over the next three years.

Organisations are embracing social procurement targets as consumer expectations continue to rise, according to a report by Social Traders.

You would be aware the Nike Melbourne Marathon Festival took place on Sunday, with over 40,000 participants raising more than $1.5 million for charity. I am proud to report that the Victorian Chamber had a dedicated team of athletes, from the 5km run to the full marathon. In a late decision, due to an illness with one of our registered team members, I joined in the 5km run, and can report it was a fantastic experience. And my hamstrings are almost back to normal!

The Victorian and Federal Governments have signed a five-year National Skills Agreement (NSA) for national cooperation and strategic investment into Victoria’s vocational education and training (VET) sector.

For young and diverse people, getting a foot in the door can be a difficult process. But in a skills shortage, investing in youth and diversity is a proven solution to these problems.

On Tuesday we had the privilege of partnering with the Herald Sun to host our second annual “Future Victoria” lunch at Crown Melbourne’s spectacular Aviary event space.

Analysis of skills shortages in Australia shows that 36 per cent of assessed occupations (332 out of 916) were in national shortage in 2023, five per cent higher than the year before.

The Victorian Chamber is supporting regional Victoria through the State Government’s Business Groups Flood Recovery Grant. 

It was wonderful to start the week with a call from our new Victorian Premier, Jacinta Allan bright and early at 8.15am.

Foodifox offers an innovative food delivery solution through smart, thermal lockers that makes food delivery secure, efficient, reliable and convenient.

I want to extend my congratulations to Victoria’s new Premier, Jacinta Allan and Deputy Premier Ben Carroll. Their appointment is fantastic news for the business community, and we have longstanding and productive relationships with both. I am delighted that they will be tasked with taking our State forward. I know they are both up for the challenge and I know they both are acutely aware of what business – all of you – contribute to our great State.

The Australian Government has released an employment White Paper that provides a roadmap of actions being taken, and further reform required, to support the Australian labour market into the future.

Melbourne Airport contributes $17.7 billion in Gross Value Added (GVA) to Victoria with more than 18,000 direct jobs across the precinct and a further 146,000 jobs supported across the State.

Some of you will have been involved in our Housing Taskforce, which is nearing completion. On Tuesday I had an opinion piece published in the Herald Sun which highlights what we have heard during the extensive consultation.

Melbourne Chamber members CSIRO and Boeing Australia have teamed up on a landmark roadmap outlining sustainable aviation in Australia.