It is an essential piece of infrastructure that will drive economic growth.

“The Western Intermodal Freight Terminal will not only provide greater access to the world for Victorian exporters, but for exporters across Australia, while also allowing for the smoother delivery of imports. “These recommendations would help to future-proof Victoria, giving our industries the leg-up they need to propel us into pole position across industry, technology, infrastructure, education, tourism and the economy, and leading the other states by example. These recommendations are based on direct feedback from business, who have been the heart and soul of our economy and communities throughout the COVID-19 pandemic,” Mr Guerra said. “This will be a critical budget for Victoria as we look to turbocharge our economic recovery. Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry chief executive Paul Guerra said the peak body played a “vital role” in advocating for what business needs to thrive in a “COVID Normal Victoria”. Introduce a subsidy for industries transitioning to clean hydrogen as a primary energy source to kickstart the transition to clean energy.Provide a national roadmap on how Australia effectively transitions towards renewable energy to businesses so that they can plan for and commence the transition to clean energy.Negotiate a national approach to payroll taxation to create a consistent, employment-friendly payroll tax threshold.Provide interim income tax relief to incentivise more Australians to work a second job and keep more businesses operating.Fund the Western Interstate Freight Terminal to revitalise industry, create Victorian jobs and cement Victoria’s place as Australia’s principal freight point.Change post-study visa duration for international students from between two to four years to a minimum of four years to encourage industry to invest in international talent.Reward international workers who have worked in Australia on employee sponsored and priority migration skilled occupation visas to have direct pathways to permanent residency.Recognise more foreign qualifications, work experience and training of migrant workers, particularly in areas with critical skills shortages.Allow more flexibility in the visa conditions for migrant workers, so they can work in other areas of need when there is a pressing demand.The chamber identified its priorities through round table discussions, member surveys and independent focus groups. “These recommendations would help future proof our economy and provide the right conditions for businesses to thrive and help our economy rebuild after the pandemic.” They prioritise targeted support for business, improving skills and training, investment in infrastructure and manufacturing and easing the cost of doing business,” the chamber said. “ submission captures 24 recommendations and priorities under the two themes of activating Victorian businesses and building for our future.

In a statement, the chamber said as the state peak industry body, it represents more than 65,000 members and clients, advocating for better conditions for Victorian businesses.

A chamber of stars