There were several people who I have met through the Chamber who were recognised this year and on behalf of the Victorian Chamber I want to congratulate them specifically. They are Sally Capp, Stefano DiPiero, Jodie Gillett, Emma King, Stephen Marks, Tim North and Kate Roffey. Congratulations to them and everyone who received an honour.

It was great to see a full house at the Westpac Building earlier today for our MCC Leadership Luncheon with Victoria’s Deputy Premier, Hon. Jacinta Allan. These events are exclusive and intimate opportunities to engage closely with some of Victoria’s most capable and respected leaders, who provide insights and answers to the business community. I extend my thanks to the Deputy Premier for her time and transparency, particularly around challenging issues like the housing supply and land use policies and look forward to the next opportunity to engage with her.

The Victorian Chamber was in Geelong on Wednesday for another of our Regional Roundtable sessions. It was great to hear that such a wide representation of business and industry attended to hear the latest updates from our team regarding membership, Industrial Relations, and policy and advocacy. It was also an opportunity to discuss regional-specific issues, including hearing concerns over the planning, procurement and coordination heading into the 2026 Commonwealth Games.

While this event will present opportunities for business, retail, hospitality, and legacy sporting facilities across the Victoria regions, we are aware of the apprehensions held by those hosting cities, and we are continuing to engage in creating ideas and solutions to the Federal and State Governments. Our next roundtable will be held in Bendigo on August 24, and we invite all those in the area to register and attend.

It was an honour to meet with the new Ambassador of Georgia, HE MR Beka Dvali last Friday. We were able to discuss Georgia’s foreign policy priorities, the challenges facing the region and how we can continue offering support and opportunities for Victorian businesses with the Ambassador’s support.

You may have seen some of the media coverage concerning Melbourne City Council’s Future Streets Framework which, in short, proposes significant changes to the current structure of the Hoddle Grid. We are working with other leading industry groups who share our concerns about the proposal and wse will continue to seek your feedback too. It was encouraging to see Peter Anderson, CEO of the Victorian Transport Association, reflecting on some of our members’ concerns. We strongly believe limiting vehicle access to the CBD will have a detrimental impact on businesses.

I want to reflect on the sorrow felt across the nation following the devastating bus crash in NSW’s Hunter Valley over the weekend, resulting in ten lives lost and multiple serious injuries.

We send our condolences to the families and friends of those who lost their lives, to those injured who remain in hospital, and to the first responders on scene.

Finally, I am honoured to be attending the Farewell Dinner for Her Excellency the Honourable Linda Dessau AC CVO and Mr Anthony Howard AM KC on Friday night. It will be one last occasion to thank the Governor and Mr Howard for the wonderful service they have given Victoria, and for the close association the Victorian Chamber has enjoyed with them both.

Have a great week ahead.