We finally got what we’ve been asking for on four fronts: the reversal of the strong recommendation to work from home, masks off in most indoor settings, the return of international visitors and visa holders and a stimulus program for hospitality, tourism, experiences and accommodation.

There’s no doubt that many of you have done it extremely tough over summer but hopefully these policy shifts, which the Victorian Chamber has been advocating strongly for, will help you to get back to doing what you do best – and will get those registers ringing once again!

For more information on the latest changes, head to our website news section which has detailed analysis. You can also follow us on our social media channels to ensure you are up to date on news as it breaks.

In positive news, the State Government announced a $200 million stimulus package including a $100 million voucher scheme for entertainment, dining and travel, $30 million regional rebate scheme, $30 million entertainment voucher scheme and $30 million travel voucher scheme.

The Government also announced further business support including the extension of the Victorian Chamber-run Business Recovery and Resilience Mentoring program. So far, this scheme has enabled us to individually help more than 3,800 businesses, supplying 11,800 personalised mentoring sessions, and we look forward to continuing this work as we move forward.

The announcement also included grants to help small business to improve ventilation at their workplace, workers placement in industries experiences staff shortages and rebates to help business access a range of digital tools.

The Victorian Chamber is continuing to work on our 2022-23 State Budget submission and we want to hear from you so we can continue our strong advocacy on the issues that impact you. Our member survey closes soon, so please have your say, it only takes five minutes.

Your input is incredibly valuable to us as it will enable our Policy team to pinpoint the areas you have identified as necessary in helping your business thrive and grow and shape our recommendations to Government.

There is so much happening across the state and with the weather putting on a spectacular display, I just want to keep encouraging you all to get out and about and support as many events, attractions and local businesses as you can (if you feel safe to do so).

Our hospitality scene is second to none; we have a wide variety of shows, exhibitions and live performances to pick from; and we are within stone’s throw to some of the world’s most incredible natural landscapes and features. Let’s make March one to remember and enjoy what Victoria has to offer.

Enjoy your week ahead,
Paul Guerra

PS. There are still places available for take part in the Victorian Chamber and the AHA (Vic), Crown Food & Beverage Skills Pathway Program. This free-of-charge program has been designed to help ease the skills shortage affecting the hospitality sector, exacerbated by COVID-19. 1000 applicants will be trained in hospitality by July next and then matched with businesses looking for skilled workers. To apply, Victorians with an interest in starting a career in hospitality are urged to visit jobsinhospo.com.au