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

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

The Fair Work Commission (FWC) has ordered compensation of $17,874.70 to an employee found to be unfairly dismissed after taking family and domestic violence (FDV) leave.

The Fair Work Legislation Amendment (Protecting Worker Entitlements) Bill 2023 passed through Federal Parliament on 22 June 2023.

Yesterday the Victorian Chamber proudly released our Regulatory Reform Policy Paper. This paper provides the pragmatic next steps for Victoria’s Regulatory Reform Agenda through four significant policy reform recommendations. Adoption of these recommendations would enhance productivity, competitiveness and the overall business environment in the state.

Following recent changes to the Victorian workers’ compensation scheme, it has never been more crucial to manage mental inherent requirements in your workplace.

I hope this update finds you well. It’s a privilege to be Acting Chief Executive of the Victorian Chamber as we’re in the midst of NAIDOC Week celebration, and I would like to acknowledge the traditional owners of the land on which we work, live, and operate our businesses. It is a time to reflect on the rich history, culture, and achievements of our First Nations people, and to renew our commitment to reconciliation and inclusivity.

Pay secrecy provisions in the Fair Work Legislation Amendment (Secure Jobs, Better Pay) Act 2022 came into effect on June 7, 2023.

I want to kick this week’s message off by extending my heartfelt congratulations to Travis Auld on behalf of the Victorian and Melbourne Chambers, on his appointment as the new Chief Executive of the Australian Grand Prix.

From verbal warnings to disciplinary hearings, managers and employers will be required to take the lead in these challenging exchanges with employees as part of accountability measures in the workplace.

While we usually open with a positive message, there is no way to sugarcoat the blow of the news that Victoria will no longer be hosting the 2026 Commonwealth Games.

The Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia has found an employer unlawfully dismissed an employee after learning about their ADHD and autism diagnosis and medication use.