It’s not panning out to be the week we had hoped for. On one of the busiest days for many of our members, the lights went out.

The State Government has boosted a program allowing students to finish Year 12 while pursuing paid training.

I am proud to announce the release of our 2024-2025 Victorian Budget Submission. This comprehensive document, shaped by extensive industry consultation and survey data, presents 44 policy recommendations.

The Victorian Chamber’s 2024-25 State Budget submission outlines 44 policy recommendations across four focus areas to steer Victorian business through challenging economic times.  

I am thrilled to be back on deck after a summer break. While it hasn’t been our usual, hot summer, it was nice to have a break. I managed to spend a few days up on the Murray... the golf was good, the weather was nice, but sadly the river was suffering from the increased water from the rains that flooded the Campaspe and Goulburn Rivers. It’s an excuse to get back up there sooner rather than later though!!

WorkSafe Victoria has revealed its prosecutions activity for the past year, reminding employers that they face serious legal consequences if they put employees at risk.

A Victorian Government initiative to help more women enter and succeed in the energy and manufacturing sectors is now open.

It’s great to be back after a summer break, especially to return to the news of so many positive developments and accolades for our members.

Feedback is being sought on upcoming new regulations to support Victoria’s WorkCover scheme, which propose changes around compensation and self-insurance arrangements.

The new year brings optimism and hope, and trepidation of what may lie ahead. While current and emerging conditions will continue to challenge our business community, the Victorian Chamber continues to have your back and advocate on your behalf.

A new Victorian tourism campaign has been launched alongside the Australian Open that aims to build on record-high visitor expenditure in the state.

There’s one recurring question I’ve been asked over recent weeks: “What’s your outlook for 2024?”

Growth. It's a concept we need to get familiar with again. It will dominate discussion over the next few years, and so it should.

As the end of the year approaches, most workers will enjoy a break and then set goals for next year.

The Inquiry into the Workplace Injury Rehabilitation and Compensation Amendment (WorkCover Scheme Modernisation) Bill 2023 has shed light on critical concerns surrounding the proposed changes, with the Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry playing a pivotal role in advocating for the interests of businesses across the state.

I have spent the morning representing the Chamber at the State Parliamentary Inquiry into WorkCover to ensure the views of business are heard.