NOTES FROM THE VICTORIA DESK

Hi there!

Spring has arrived in Melbourne and with it a renewed sense of energy. The city is buzzing (with a few protests and) as footy finals fever starts to ramp up (did I mention the Pies are in the mix... again ;), the racing season is around the corner, and the warmer weather is bringing people out to our cafes, laneways and parks.

On the economic front, the Australian picture remains mixed. The economy rebounded in the June quarter 2025, with real GDP up 0.6%, household spending lifted 0.9% thanks to Easter and ANZAC Day holidays, end-of-financial-year sales and new product launches, while annual inflation eased to 2.1%, the lowest since early 2021. Labour demand strengthened, the proportion of vacant jobs increased though wage growth held steady. The housing market remained buoyant, with average new home loans hitting a record value of $678,000 and imports showed Australians continue to embrace EVs, hybrids and, of course, Utes. 

The Reserve Bank’s balancing act with interest rates continues to dominate headlines, while trade dynamics and global policy shifts remain firmly on the radar for (the likes of Australia Post and) Victorian exporters.

The standout moment in September was Melbourne hosting the14th World Chambers Congress - a truly global gathering of business leaders, policymakers and changemakers. Held at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (a venue close to my heart) the Congress was inspiring in its content. Across the three days, discussions ranged from the opportunities and risks of AI to the role chambers play in bridging regulatory complexity, supporting business through disruption and rebuilding trust in institutions. We heard case studies of policy agility and economic transformation and explored human-centred themes including inclusive growth and ethical leadership. 

For me, representing the Australian American Chamber of Commerce, San Francisco, the Victorian Chamber and Beacon Consult was both a privilege and a joy. It was a chance to connect with chamber leaders, policymakers and industry partners from across the globe including a San Francisco contact (shout out to Nigel Warren)! A huge congratulations to the Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, ICC World Chambers Federation and partners for delivering such an outstanding event.