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.

As Australia seeks to maximise the opportunities created by digital technologies and grow the digital economy, the Federal Government is looking at ways to implement appropriate security and control measures.

“Today’s announcement that Victoria will host the 2026 Commonwealth Games is sensational news for our whole state and cements our reputation as the sporting and events capital of the world.

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.

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.

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.

Qantas CEO Alan Joyce AC says Australia can “move a bit faster” on relaxing rules around isolation for close contacts as the nation embarks on its economic recovery.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

The Australian Government’s lead cyber security agency, the Australian Cyber Security Centre (ACSC), has encouraged organisations to urgently review their systems in light of the Russia-Ukraine conflict.

Great news this week with several positive developments to set us on a cracking pace for our state’s COVID-19 recovery.

The Victorian Chamber was pleased to partner with Crown Melbourne on business recovery webinars designed to help regional businesses bounce back following consecutive lockdowns and sparse tourism.