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.

The Victorian Government’s Portable Long Service Leave (LSL) Scheme has recently reached a milestone of 3,000 registered businesses.

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.

Victoria’s Supreme Court of Appeal has upheld a decision that Austin Health treated a manager unfavourably because of her gender. Austin Health allegedly ignored her repeated attempts to negotiate her salary despite her male colleagues being paid higher rates.

From Tuesday 6 June 2023, significant changes relating to the Fair Work Legislation Amendment (Secure Jobs, Better Pay) Act 2022 came into effect.

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

The Victorian Government recently announced major changes to the state’s Workers’ Compensation scheme, which it plans to legislate later in 2023.

The Fair Work Commission (FWC) has increased award and minimum rates of pay by 5.75 per cent from 1 July 2023.

The Victorian Government has announced vehicle registration will be free for eligible apprentices from July 1, 2023.

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.

The Australian Government’s latest data reveals skills shortages remain across many sectors and in regional areas. If your business needs to fill its skills gap and future-proof its workforce, the Victorian Chamber can help through a range of training programs, staffing solutions, workplace support and more.

The Fair Work Commission (FWC) has criticised an employer’s ‘tick and flick’ approach to social media and standards policy training after one employee’s dismissal was overturned and another’s upheld for various social media contraventions.

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.

Running a business can be challenging enough without employee issues arising but many employers will need to address a performance or conduct matter at some stage.

The Victorian Chamber encourages small and large employers to nominate and have their efforts recognised at the Victorian Skills Authority’s Victorian Training Awards for 2023.