The scope and implementation of the Code is currently being designed by the State Government.

It is proposed that businesses must comply with the Code if they want to be considered for high value government procurement contracts (valued above $3 million), and significant high value grants (more than $500,000).

The Code will include requirements for businesses to:

• Promote fair labour standards in their workplace
• Comply with employment, industrial and workplace health and safety obligationsPromote secure employment and job security
• Foster and promote cooperative and constructive relationships between employers, employees and their representatives
• Promote and foster workplace equity and diversity.

While the Victorian Chamber supports business compliance with existing workplace laws, we are concerned that this new Code adds unnecessary costs and complexity to doing business in Victoria at a time when many businesses are struggling to survive.

On behalf of our members, the Victorian Chamber is providing feedback to the State Government on the proposed design.

To help us inform this feedback, we want to speak to businesses who may be affected by this new requirement.

If you think this Code is likely to impact your business and would like to provide feedback on the proposed design, please contact our Policy Team directly at policy@victorianchamber.com.au to organise a time for us to give you a call.