This is double the maximum increase of 1.2 per cent that was recommended by the Australian Chamber and puts an additional burden on Victorian business already operating in a challenging economic environment.

Despite some improvements, Victoria’s youth unemployment rate remains high and the FWC decision will not help to address this. Rising costs already impact on business productivity and the minimum wage increase will further act as a barrier to job creation.

We will be updating members on specific rates of pay under their awards via the award subscription service. This will take place in the lead up to 1 July as the Fair Work Commission release drafts and award specific schedules further to this recent decision. Members wishing to check or update their subscriptions can do so by logging into their Victorian Chamber website account.

Last week, we joined the Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry for the official launch of its federal election policy platform Top 10 in 10: ten steps towards a more competitive Australia.

Victorian business plays an important role in our national economy and it stands to benefit enormously from the priorities outlined in the election platform, which highlights ways to boost Australia’s global competitiveness.

Practical measures like encouraging the take up of apprentices and trainees, reducing the company tax rate, improving workplace regulation and building productivity enhancing infrastructure are all ways in which governments can help drive economic growth and improve the operating environment for Victorian business.  I encourage members to get involved in the campaign and support these key business priorities in the lead up to the election.

Finally, I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate EML, who have been appointed as an agent by WorkSafe Victoria to manage workers compensation insurance and claims management from 1 July 2016. The Victorian Chamber looks forward to working with EML to ensure continued improvements are made in the safety performance of Victorian businesses and particularly those employing young workers.