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.

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.

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 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 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.

“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.

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.

The Victorian Government is inviting the tourism industry to help shape the future of Victoria’s visitor economy.

I love Melbourne. It’s the best city in the world. But COVID hasn’t been kind to our CBD and it’s becoming more obvious that our recovery is taking longer than we hoped.

Victorian Treasurer Tim Pallas MP has praised business for the resilience it has shown as the state emerges from the pandemic and embarks on economic recovery.

The Victorian Budget was announced this week, and I'm sure you will have different views of what it means for you.

As we know, it’s been a challenging two years for many businesses in Victoria. The good news is there is a range of assistance available through various State or Commonwealth programs to help your business as we move out of the pandemic.

With consultation on Melbourne Airport’s Third Runway closing this month, Victorian Chamber members are encouraged to provide feedback and support on the Draft Plan.