We are aware the impact won’t subside in the short-term as the implications of the global outbreak continues to be felt here at home.

Containment measures such as the travel ban have been largely successful in protecting Australians from the worst of coronavirus. However, the significant outbreaks in South Korea, Iran and Italy, as well as the first confirmed case in the US, has prompted the Australian Government to make preparations should the disease be declared a global pandemic by the World Health Organisation.

We understand that the federal Treasurer the Hon Josh Frydenberg MP is now considering coronavirus a health crisis with significant economic implications. The Morrison Government looks set to target small stimulus measures at specifically affected industries, including businesses with compromised China supply chain issues.

The circumstances members and the wider business community are confronting present us with enormous challenges for our future. The Victorian Chamber has engaged deeply at both state and federal levels throughout the current crises and will continue to listen to, and advocate for our members to ensure their voices are heard and they have access to the most up-to-date information.

We are working with governments on potential support arrangements as well as how we can directly help you do that. Some helpful advice on things you can do in your business to assist with the impacts of COVID-19 is available on the Victorian Chamber website. For more detailed material, a copy of the Health Minister’s media conference on COVID-19 is available on the Department of Health website along with the main statement from the Principal Committee.

I will continue to provide members updates on the coronavirus as they happen.

I am pleased to announce that funds are now flowing to businesses impacted by the bushfires, with the Chamber contracted to assess and distribute grants. With a focus on getting money quickly to impacted businesses, our approach sees applications assessed and funds into business bank accounts within five business days. Please check if you are eligible for assistance here.  

With more high-profile reports of wage and entitlement underpayment governments have increased their efforts to formulate a legislative response. The Victorian Government moved forward with its pre-election commitment to establish new ‘wage theft’ laws this week, releasing a consultation paper outlining the proposed design of new legislation.

The Victorian Chamber will make a submission on the Government’s proposal and will be advocating strongly to protect the interests of our members. Find out more information here, or let us know your views here.

We know our members want to adhere to their legal commitments. Our workplace relations team can help by making sure you have the information you need to ensure your business is compliant.

If you follow us on social media you would have seen our exciting announcement that Damon Hill OBE, winner of the first Melbourne Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix in 1996, will join us as special guest speaker of our 2020 Grand Prix Breakfast.

This event is always hugely popular and hearing a candid chat with a former champion driver is an experience you can’t miss. Tickets are selling fast. Please visit the Victorian Chamber website to register.

I look forward to seeing you there or at our other events throughout the year.