A recent Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia decision is a timely reminder of the importance of ongoing business compliance around employee classification and pay.

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!!

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.

A patent and trademark attorney has been awarded compensation after the Fair Work Commission (FWC) found that although there was a valid reason for dismissal, the termination process was harsh.

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.

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.

Some parts of the Federal Government’s latest reforms to the Fair Work Act (FWA) have now come into effect.

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.

Key measures of the Fair Work Act reform have passed parliament and others have been delayed for further debate in the new year.

Our final major event of the year - our inspirational Women in Business lunch, featuring a captivating conversation between our brilliant MC, Alicia Loxley, and our distinguished guest, the Honourable Linda Dessau AC CVO - has been the highlight of my week.

The Fair Work Commission (FWC) has ordered a car dealership compensate a former apprentice after “disproportionately” dismissing him without notice for falsifying a car service inspection.

I wanted to ensure you are kept across the WorkCover Bill amendments. We have been working with both the Government and Opposition to ensure they understand a premium increase beyond CPI is not acceptable. We also continue to state that we support necessary changes to make the scheme sustainable. We all need it.

A Victorian Chamber briefing will explain key changes around fixed-term contracts under the Fair Work Legislation Amendment (Secure Jobs, Better Pay) Act 2022.