The 2023-24 Federal Budget will allocate $314 million towards a new energy program aimed at lowering business power bills and emissions.

As we approach the budget season, we are in continuing discussions with the State Government to ensure business remains positioned to provide the growth the State needs. I expect those meetings will continue over the next few weeks as well.

We have one hot off the press today! We are incredibly proud to announce that the Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry has been named as one of four finalists in the 13th World Chambers Congress (WCC) 2023 Competition in the Best Gender Equity Project category for our Chamber Change (Women in Business) program.

The Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry is delighted to have been named as one of four finalists in the 13th World Chambers Congress (WCC) 2023 Competition in the Best Gender Equity Project category for our Chamber Change program.

Solar power is now more accessible for small and medium businesses through measures announced in the 2023/24 Federal Budget combined with Victorian incentives.

As business awaits next week’s State Budget, the latest feedback from our members is that regained confidence post-pandemic has waned in the face of tough economic conditions.

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.

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.

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. 

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

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.

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.

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.

The Victorian Government has released a 10-year clean economy plan to create training and skills opportunities for workers, businesses, and industry as the state moves towards net zero by 2045.

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.

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.