The Victorian Chamber encourages members to explore SME Connect, an initiative from national science agency CSIRO, which connects local small-to-medium businesses with Australia's research sector and facilitates innovation-driven partnerships through funding, support and resources.

Pat McCluskey and Pat Boland founded ANCA (formerly Australian Numerical Control and Automation) in 1974. Today it is a thriving business headquartered in Melbourne with more than 1,000 employees and a world-leading manufacturer of computer numerical control (CNC) grinding machines, motion controls, sheet metal solutions and component design and manufacturing.

Yesterday we celebrated International Women’s Day, a global event marking the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women, and amplifying the call for diverse, equitable and inclusive workplaces.

Habits can be hard to break and I’m sure we all felt a bit uncertain last week as office workers started to return after the better part of two years working from home.

Analysis by major road operator Transurban has found commuters are choosing private vehicles over public transport as our habits and routines evolve as a result of the pandemic.

The Chamber is working overtime to ensure business remains our number one priority. As we have done right through the pandemic, we are continuing to advocate strongly on behalf of our members with all levels of government in what will be a critical year with both federal and state elections.

Attendance records are set to tumble and Victoria’s economy given a huge shot in the arm when the Formula 1 Grand Prix returns to Albert Park next month after a two-year absence.

It’s hard to describe what an incredible feeling it is to finally be able to move around our great state again and enjoy all Regional Victoria has to offer, whether it’s our beautiful towns, beaches, lakes, rivers, wineries, golf courses or restaurants.

One of the country’s largest superannuation funds was formed recently when Sunsuper and QSuper merged to form Australian Retirement Trust, which now takes care of more than $200 billion in retirement savings for two million members.

It’s Grand Prix week in Victoria and the excitement and energy is palpable. It will be extra special in 2022 as we remember the dramatic circumstances under which it was cancelled in 2020 when the reality of COVID-19 hit us like a wrecking ball. How far we have come since then as Victorian business continues to embrace the opportunities that lie ahead.

More than 350,000 fans are expected to flock to Albert Park this weekend as the Formula 1® Heineken® Australian Grand Prix roars back into Melbourne.

The Victorian Chamber congratulates Melbourne Chamber member, Monash University, for its recognition as a global leader in pharmaceutical sciences.

The 2022 Formula 1® Heineken® Australian Grand Prix has reaffirmed Melbourne’s status as the sporting and events capital of the nation, smashing crowd records and sending a strong message to the world that Melbourne is open for business.

I’m sure you are all delighted with today’s State Government announcement on the further easing of COVID-19 restrictions. It’s exactly what Victorian business needs to really get moving with our post-pandemic recovery.

At 125 years old, Dow continues to channel its materials science expertise as it collaborates and innovates with customers and partners to create solutions to help deliver a sustainable future.

Over the past 12 months business scams have surged, with a significant increase in email scams. Westpac data shows the average loss for these is around four times higher than other scams, which can have a devasting impact on businesses and their customers.