Our report will outline key strategies, insights and recommendations to navigate the ongoing challenges across Victoria’s housing landscape. We will be releasing the full document soon, which is a product of six online roundtables, three regional visits, many one-on-one meetings with engaged stakeholders and dedicated surveys to ascertain gaps in housing supply and demand. The Victorian Chamber is confident that it will be a valuable resource for the Government, businesses and individuals alike.

To that end, the Victorian Chamber welcomes today’s Victorian Government Affordable Housing Investment Partnership announcement, which includes the provision of $1 billion in low-interest loans and government guarantees for new social and affordable homes for key workers and low-income Victorian families. Every Victorian deserves a place to call home, and this partnership represents a crucial stride toward achieving that goal.

As we look to the future and opportunities of Victoria and our goals to retain our status as world’s most liveable city, it’s an opportune moment to promote one of our upcoming events. For the second year running, we have collaborated with the Herald Sun to present Future Victoria, a networking lunch focussing on growth suburbs, population increases, Multicultural Melbourne, health and transport. Posing questions on what the future of our state looks like, and how the business community can support Victoria’s development.

As part of our ongoing commitment to the wellbeing of our members, I want to remind everyone that today is R U OK Day. This day serves as a reminder to check in on the mental health and wellbeing of our colleagues, friends and loved ones. Let’s take this opportunity to reach out, have meaningful conversations and provide support to those who may be struggling. Taking care of our collective wellbeing is essential, and by connecting and supporting each other, we can create a stronger, more resilient business community.

There is also still time to register for tomorrow’s IR Update webinar led by the Victorian Chamber’s Workplace Relations and Wellbeing Consulting team. The 45-minute session starts at 9am and will help you understand the Bill, what it may mean for your business and the major milestones ahead.

Finally, I encourage all members close to Warragul to take part in THRIVE2023 – LaunchVic’s flagship innovation conference for Regional Victoria on Wednesday 25 October and Thursday 26 October. THRIVE2023 will provide a deeper understanding of entrepreneurship and the power of harnessing startup activity in regional communities. Find more details and register here.

I want to acknowledge the recent Bourke Street tragedy, and our hearts go out to the victims, and everyone affected by these unfathomable events. These incidents not only impact our community, but also local businesses. As discussed with Sunrise’s Matt Shirvington yesterday morning.

I would also like to inform you all that our Victorian Chamber past-President Karyn Sobels has taken a leave of absence from the VCCI Board and Executive Council for a short period.

The City and surrounding suburbs will be electric as Melbourne and Carlton clash in front of what is anticipated to be a record-breaking crowd at the MCG tomorrow night. Enjoy week two of the finals series and best of luck if your team is still in play!

Have a wonderful weekend (parents – welcome to term three school holidays!) and enjoy this glorious weather.