The Victorian Chamber is opposed to the proposed Federal Industrial Relations legislation which will only serve to reduce Victorian workers’ flexibility and freedom, drive up costs for consumers and make it more difficult to run a business not only in Victoria, but across Australia.

The proposed changes are too broad and vague and would give the Fair Work Commission new powers to force some small businesses, contractors and those in the gig economy to be made an employee if they are captured by certain working conditions.

The Victorian Chamber is concerned about the additional right of entry powers that would be given to union delegates. It is imperative that people who choose not to belong to unions have the same rights to personal safety, privacy, and freedom of association.

Thousands of hardworking Australians will be unfairly hit by another layer of regulatory red tape and added costs of doing business.

Moreover, these changes will drive up the cost of living and unfairly impact small businesses at a time when they can least afford it.

The Victorian Chamber is here to continue advocating on behalf of business and provide information and understanding to our members and clients about what the Bill means for you and your business.

Join our Workplace Relations and Wellbeing Consulting team at 9am on Friday 15 September for a 45-minute online briefing that will help you navigate the major changes ahead. Registration is free for all members and can be accessed here.

It’s always an honour to be asked to speak on behalf of the Victorian Chamber. Yesterday I was privileged to deliver the keynote address at the Strata Community Association Victoria Symposium 2023. I loved the theme of ‘Stepping into a Strata-positive future’, and the implications of seizing opportunities, driving growth and preparing for exciting new developments across industry.

It’s the basis of all business growth and, as I shared with guests, my advice is to ensure you are making a positive difference with everything you do. Be bold in your pursuits and adapt to a world that is in continual disruption. Things are moving quicker, and they are unlikely to slow down. But we can control our own pace, and it’s the smart ones that do. I’m looking forward to sharing similar sentiments tonight at Consulting Surveyors Victoria’s Industry Network Meeting, focusing on what I believe should drive Victoria’s next transformation beyond the Big Build.

Finally, I’m sure all of you are feeling some relief following the RBA’s decision to keep interest rates on hold at 4.1 per cent for another month. It was Philip Lowe’s last meeting as Governor, and we thank him for his contribution and wish him well. I hope that this third consecutive hold provides some breathing room for you all.

Have a wonderful weekend and prepare yourself for tomorrow and Saturday’s cold snap....although sadly a little too late for this year’s ski season. Good luck if your team is in the finals....sadly the Bombers missed again for me!