You are probably done hearing me talk about the need for a roadmap, both privately and in the media, but it’s clear the words are starting to resonate. We have been relentless about this for many months, and we were again this week. We continue to represent your interests, and I can tell you there is progress.

With promising signs that the Government is getting the health crisis under control, it’s time to shift focus to the economic crisis and how Victorian businesses will get back on track and back to work, and fast!

We know you are asking the same question that we are, ‘what’s next?’ There will be no jobs if businesses are expected to keep their doors closed indefinitely - which is why we have been very active in talks with MPs and the media, calling on the Andrews Government to be upfront and transparent with businesses as to what they can expect when the current restrictions expire on 13 September. Businesses need clarity and timelines so they can restock, rehire and retrain their staff, among many other things.

Premier Andrews’ call on Monday to move to extend the State of Emergency for another 12 months has left businesses and communities even more concerned about the future. It’s clear there will be a need for some form of extension, but again, it can’t be done without a clear roadmap for recovery beyond 13 September.

Your feedback to us has made it clear that Victorian businesses want industry-based recovery strategies in place to enable them to quickly resume trading once restrictions are lifted. Our members also told us they want to be directly involved in shaping these strategies, and we have listened by using the many valuable suggestions received via our recent economic recovery survey to help shape our input and advice to Government. If you haven’t’ already done so, I encourage you to take part before 31 August via the link provided on the front page of this edition of Victorian Chamber News, so you can have your say and let us know if you want to continue to be involved in the process.

The bottom line is the virus is still with us. While we must have appropriate COVIDSafe plans in place, we can’t stay locked down forever. The Victorian Chamber continues to be in close contact with the State Government, Federal Government and key Opposition leaders, and we are confident that we will come to a solution to ensure Victorian businesses are out of the dark and can begin to look ahead with a comprehensive plan in place to do so.

On a final note, in some very exciting news, one of our Melbourne Chamber Members, Nucleus Network, has today announced a move to a Phase 2 trial of a COVID-19 Vaccine. Congratulations to Ric and the team, we wish you every success!

I hope you all have a safe and good week ahead. 

Business Recovery and Resilience Mentoring Program

Last week, we were proud to announce a Business Recovery and Resilience Mentoring Program in partnership with the State Government. We are calling for expressions of interests for businesses as well as potential mentors to be involved in the program. Please head to our website for detailed information on how you can get involved.