The Victorian Chamber had been advocating for the changes, which include caps on office workers removed, masks rules relaxed in retail settings, an increase to indoor and outdoor gathering limits, and density limits in some business settings eased. Visit our website for more information on the new restrictions coming into effect from 6pm on Friday.

The Chamber would like to see the removal of density limits on hospitality venues, so that restaurants, cafes and function venues still struggling after a year of devastation can get back to a sustainable footing and regrow jobs. With the end of support measures like JobKeeper and rent relief fast approaching, along with zero cases of community transmission, now is the time to remove all remaining restrictions on the hospitality sector.

Business has spent the past 12 months doing what they’re told, now it’s time to repay that. We all have an obligation to do the right thing: check in and be COVIDSafe. It’s in the interest of all Victorians that we all take personal responsibility for playing our part. If outbreaks do occur, they should be dealt with in a targeted and localised way so that we are not locking down the entire state.

We also need to innovate, adapt and accept the reality that we are not going to get CBD office workers back in every day and therefore restructure the city to support that. Just as businesses had to pivot to survive the pandemic, the city’s economy now needs to pivot. We can’t go back to the old way of doing things as COVID-19 has certainly exposed many flaws in our old economy, but also identified opportunities for new enterprises.

That’s why I am so excited about the Victoria Summit 2021. We had a productive first meeting with the reference group last week where some of the state’s thought leaders came together to look forward and lay the foundations of the Summit, which will map out the state’s future. A reminder you can find more information on the Summit on our dedicated website, plus don’t forget to register your interest to be involved.

Businesses are going to need help to get through this next phase. Whether that’s workplace relations advice to deal with the new issues surrounding the vaccine rollout or balancing work from home and in-office days, finding an apprentice through our Apprenticeships Support Australia arm or championing for reduced restrictions and targeted financial support, the Victorian Chamber is here. Please reach out to our experienced and friendly team should you require any advice or assistance.

Victoria took a big step this week and now it’s time to stop telling businesses what they should be doing. They have done what’s required over the last 12 months, now let’s support them and let business owners get on with what they do best.

Victorian Chamber Presents: Alan Joyce

We are delighted to announce an exclusive event in June for our members featuring one of Australia’s most well-known and recognised business leaders, Alan Joyce AC, CEO of the Qantas Group. In an open discussion, Alan will share with us the business challenges and lessons he has faced in his role over the last 12 months as well as what the future looks like for Qantas and the plan to survive aviation’s biggest-ever crisis. Registrations are open now, so head to our website to secure your place.

Enjoy your week ahead.

Regards,
Paul.