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.

The finalists for the 2023 Victorian Manufacturing Hall of Fame awards have been revealed, featuring members of the Victorian and Melbourne Chambers of Commerce.

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.

The Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry today released its Regulatory Reform Policy Paper, which puts forward the next pragmatic steps for Victoria’s Regulatory Reform Agenda. It provides a summary of the broad implications of regulatory burden in Victoria, and four significant policy reform recommendations that, if implemented, would enhance productivity, competitiveness, and the overall business environment in the state.

The Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry has released a Regulatory Reform Policy Paper to drive the next steps of regulatory reform in the state and grow business confidence and investment.

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.

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.

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

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 negatives outweigh the positive initiatives for business in the Victorian State Budget 2023-24 released today, with medium and large businesses and multiple property owners facing increased costs to repay State debt.

Today’s State Budget of new and increased taxes and levies will hit medium to large businesses and property owners. It will directly impact jobs and investment in Victoria.

The Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry welcomes the Victorian Government announcement to replace stamp duty for commercial and industrial properties with an annual property tax.

WorkCover changes announced today will see premiums increase by more than 40 per cent, changes to mental health eligibility and the creation of a new pilot program for impacted workers.