While Andrews was expected to be re-elected, the extent of the swing to Labor from the Liberals and Greens was surprising. The Andrews Government secured 23 out of 29 seats (as of 2 December) and also had gains in the upper house (now holding 17 out of 40 positions as of 30 November). This should deliver the stability and predictability needed to secure the passage of legislation. On the flip side, majority government and weak Opposition can lead to less accountability meaning our policy and advocacy will be crucial to ensure business priorities are addressed. 

With the Victorian Chamber’s state election campaign now officially over, work is underway to engage with the Government’s new ministry and set our policy and advocacy agenda for 2019.

Under the banner of Stronger Business, Stronger Victoria (SBSV), we were successful in drawing attention to business interests, raising the profile and brand of the Chamber as well as testing new campaign tactics and messages. These will be crucial as we now shift campaign efforts to the federal arena, with an election expected in May 2019. 

In line with our recommendations, both major parties committed to increase community safety, pledged large investments in road and rail projects, supported initiatives to bring down energy prices, and placed a greater focus on regional Victoria and initiatives that would grow jobs in industries considered as growth sectors.

In addition, we also saw Labor follow our calls to commit to giving more support for trainees and apprenticeships to ensure there is a pipeline of local skilled workers being trained with the skills business requires. 

The Victorian Chamber also acknowledged the strong support for business received from the Hon Matthew Guy MP and the Liberal National Coalition during the election.

I’m incredibly proud of what we have achieved in this election campaign and thankful to our members and the entire Victorian Chamber team for its invaluable contribution. 

In other news, yesterday we were delighted to be joined by over 500 guests for our final event in the 2018 Victorian Chamber Presents series, featuring Lorna Jane Clarkson –  founder and inspirational woman behind the multi-award winning active-wear brand. 

It was a pleasure hearing from Lorna Jane on the journey to her brand’s success and longevity, and about her genuine passion to support and educate women to live a happy and fulfilling life through active living. We thoroughly enjoyed celebrating and reflecting on the year’s successes with our valued members and industry friends.  

Mark Stone AM