There continues to be conversations in the media around who should return to work in the office and for how many days. Our view remains that it’s up to each individual workplace to decide that with their teams. Your workplace is your responsibility and whilst others may have opinions, the decision rests with you!

We know there are advantages to being in the office and people are enjoying the renewed sense of social connection, collaboration and learning. It also has economic benefits for our CBD with businesses taking advantage of increased trade. We will continue to facilitate discussions with business leaders, the City of Melbourne and the Victorian Government on what else can be done to revitalise the CBD. If you have any concepts or issues you want to raise, don’t hesitate to get in contact with us via media@victorianchamber.com.au.

There is also a survey by the Department of Jobs, Precincts and Regions that will help it evaluate the success of the current Victorian Dining and Entertainment Program. There are still plenty of funds left to claim in this program, and they are interested to see if it has made a real difference to relevant Victorian businesses and if this type of program can be effective in boosting activity in these sectors going forward.

As we continue to find that balance in our working arrangements, there has never been a better time to review your workplace policies around the wellness, safety and the physical and mental health of your employees. The Victorian Chamber Presents: Wellness in the Workplace breakfast will provide vital information and insights from industry leaders including CEO and Managing Director of AIA Australia, Damien Mu, Head of Mental Health and Wellbeing at the AFL, Dr Kate Hall, and Specialist Sport and Exercise Physician, media commentator and former athlete Dr Peter Larkins. There are still seats available and you can find more information and tickets here.

I’m also excited to announce that we have set dates for our policy and advocacy roundtables in Regional Victoria. Following last month’s visit to Geelong, we are looking forward to getting out to Horsham, Shepparton, Wodonga, Traralgon, Colac, Warrnambool and Mildura in the coming months. Keep an eye on your inbox for more details as these will be great opportunities for you to share your insights with us and help shape our policy and advocacy as we approach the State Election in November.

Have a wonderful week everyone.