How good is it to have the AFL back? Four action packed days and evenings resulted in some nail-biting results for round one, and I have to say, the ladder is looking spectacular to this Essendon supporter!

As Victorian businesses continue to grapple with staff and skills shortages, it may come as some relief to learn the Overseas Qualifications Unit (OQU) provides a free and confidential assessment of current or prospective employees’ overseas qualifications to determine their compatibility with Australian standards.

The Clean Energy Council (CEC) has reported an increase in renewable investments but not enough to reach renewable energy targets.

I hope you all made the most of the long weekend and those who opened or worked did a roaring trade, the weather was certainly in full cooperation!

State and federal grants are available now for small and medium businesses seeking energy efficiency upgrades as well as manufacturing growth opportunities.

Being a woman in trades can offer exciting opportunities and a rewarding career – just ask 2022 Victorian Apprentice of the year Chhunly Taing.

Today we celebrate International Women’s Day, a global event that recognises the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women, raises awareness about discrimination and drives gender parity.

There goes summer for another year. Not quite the warm weather we had hoped for, but we look ahead to what autumn brings, particularly with the Moomba Festival, AFL Season, Grand Prix, and the highly anticipated opening of “& Juliet” not far away.

As a registered training organisation and respected short course provider to members, the Victorian Chamber helps businesses looking to upskill their workforce or professionals looking to take the next step in their careers.

I’ve been asked to address a number of different forums in recent weeks to give the Chamber’s view on the outlook for business for 2023 and the role of business in driving economic growth.

The Victorian Chamber welcomes Federal Government changes to boost the international education sector and address skills shortages in key industries.

I’ve spent a large part of the last week engaging with various stakeholders including Victorian Government Ministers and our members about the rising costs involved with running a business, escalating electricity and gas prices, and what the road to net zero looks like.

The Victorian Chamber and Youth Activating Youth (YAY) are enjoying strong demand for our placement program that offers multicultural and disadvantaged youth an opportunity of meaningful employment.

Well, it seems we are going to have to get used to interest rates continuing to rise if this weeks commentary is anything to go by. I’m sure you all felt the impact of the latest interest rate rise in some way. It’s another cost increase that will hit most businesses either directly or indirectly via the potential decline in consumer spending.

The Victorian Chamber has released a roadmap aimed at helping reduce energy prices, ensure the reliability of energy supply, capitalise on investment opportunities and support businesses in the transition to a net-zero economy.

The Australian Apprenticeships Priority List has been expanded, adding occupations eligible for financial support.