Sunday penalty rates have generally been reduced from 200 per cent to 175 per cent or 150 per cent, which many of our members in key services sectors, particularly retail and hospitality have been calling for.

We have heard from members in these sectors who are excited by the announcement and will now be able to take on more staff on these days and either open for the first time or stay open for longer. One business even estimates this will generate an extra 20 hours of employment a week.

The Victorian Chamber has supported this announcement by the Fair Work Commission and believes this change presents will create jobs, increase flexibility and provide new opportunities, particularly for young people who often get their first job in the retail and hospitality sectors.

The full bench of the Fair Work Commission made this decision as part of its four yearly review of modern awards. Despite the ongoing opposition to this decision, the Victorian Chamber will continue to advocate for this and all changes that will benefit Victorian business.

Another hot topic in the media has been the homeless camps set up in and around the Melbourne CBD. As outlined in a news item in this newsletter, the City of Melbourne is proposing a change to a Local Law to give the council greater powers to remove unattended items in the city centre. The Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry encourage all of its members operating in the City of Melbourne municipality to contribute to this survey and have their say.

Finally, tickets to the Victorian Chamber’s Post-Budget lunch event featuring Victorian Treasurer Tim Pallas are selling fast. I encourage everyone to find out more about this important event and order tickets soon to avoid missing out.

Mark Stone AM