This event promises invaluable insights with a keynote address from Minister for Industry and Innovation, Ben Carroll MP, a dynamic panel discussion and networking opportunities to elevate our members’ success. One of the purposes of this event is for the Victorian Chamber to help connect businesses, that have been thinking about innovating, to the enablers that can help them to achieve their full potential. It will be motivating and energising - ticket sales close at 12pm tomorrow.

Our commitment to collaboration was also on show this week at the Herald Sun’s Bush Summit 2023 where I was delighted to be a panelist in Wodonga today. It was an honour to share the stage with Business Women Albury Wodonga Chair, Desiree Georgiou, North East Water Managing Director, Jo Murdoch and Herald Sun Federal Political Reporter, Jade Gailberger, to discuss how we can continue supporting regional businesses, explore growth opportunities and strengthen economic resilience in our rural communities.

We spoke about the importance of investment in innovation and growth, infrastructure and affordable housing and agreed that vigorous discussion and purposeful collaboration are steps in the right direction towards the long-term economic sustainability of Victoria’s regional communities.

We will be back in Regional Victoria again next week for our first regional Chamber Change program in Bendigo and a policy roundtable.

One of the issues we expect to be raised is housing. The Victorian Chamber is also conducting a series of online sessions to help inform our Housing Taskforce Report. We have been bringing together key stakeholders to address challenges and brainstorm innovative approaches to tackle the housing crisis. You can have you say in the final two themed around ‘Supporting Infrastructure’ and ‘Innovation’ by registering here.

Continuing the theme of future-proofing our state, I am pleased to announce that the Victorian Chamber and Herald Sun will again co-host a Future Victoria event featuring thought and industry leaders on themes including growth suburbs, population increases, multicultural Melbourne, health and transport. This is an event not to be missed – secure your seat now.

In another fabulous development this week, I would like to warmly congratulate Michelle Jablko on her appointment as Chief Executive of Melbourne Chamber member, Transurban. As current Chief Financial Officer of the tollroad group, I have no doubt that she will do an incredible job as Scott Charlton’s successor. Congratulations Scott on an impressive 11-year career with Transurban and we wish you all the best for your retirement!

And while we didn’t claim victory last night, our ‘Tillies’ are the pride of the nation, generating memorable heart-stopping moments, changing the conversation and creating unprecedented awareness for women in sport. I’ll be cheering them on for the bronze on Saturday!

Have a wonderful weekend.