The Federal Government has announced plans to introduce legislation that will make COVID-19 testing expenses tax deductible for individuals and businesses when used to attend a place of work.

After much debate the Morrison Government will not continue with legislation that included provisions to make discrimination on the grounds of religious belief or activity unlawful in a range of areas (including employment and education).

In two landmark decisions, the High Court has indicated a significant shift in focus when determining whether a worker is an employee or independent contractor.

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.

The State Government has eased several restrictions around density limits, QR check-ins and surveillance testing, with changes to office settings flagged, but yet to be formalised.

The Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry welcomes today’s State Government announcement of a $200 million stimulus support package designed to help businesses to roar back.

The State Government is encouraging Victorians to experience the state’s renowned hospitality, tourism and creative industries with more than $100 million in rebates and vouchers, while businesses are also in line for $100 million in stimulus programs.

The State Government is dropping the ‘strong recommendation’ that Victorians work from home, while masks will no longer be needed in offices and most other indoor settings, following the latest update to Pandemic Orders.

The Victorian Government is committed to transitioning towards a circular economy. 'Recycling Victoria: A new economy' is the Victorian Government’s 10-year circular economy policy and action plan to fundamentally transform the state’s recycling sector, reduce waste, create thousands of jobs and set Victoria up for a more sustainable future.

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

Among the many profound impacts COVID-19 has had on our workplaces, the toll the pandemic has taken on the wellbeing of employees is something we are only beginning to grasp as more of us return to the workplace.

The Fair Work Commission (FWC) has deemed an employee’s redundancy unfair despite accepting the business no longer had a need for the position. The decision was based on a failure to demonstrate compliance with award obligations.

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.

While public health orders can be complex and confusing, it is important that employers understand their obligations to remain compliant. The Victorian Chamber can help you make sense of these requirements.

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 2022-23 State Budget must enable business to play a leading role in Victoria’s economic recovery according to the Victorian Chamber.