Welcome to FY2024. It’s full steam ahead in the Whitsundays with visitors flocking to the region over school holiday. And the weather has generally cooperated with a spectacular Whitsunday winter!
Full steam ahead as Chamber advocacy over the last few weeks includes preparing members for new industrial relations changes that have come into effect, skilled workforce shortages and visa pathways, the regions housing crisis, and local precinct infrastructure — particularly trying to mitigate negative publicity on Airlie Beach’s main street.
Our support for the establishment of a Designated Area Migration Agreement (DAMA) continues and we are delighted to have Marny Bowman from the Department of Home Affairs appearing at our next event to provide information for employers.
Additionally, coinciding with the Chamber’s involvement in a couple of consultations on the region’s housing crisis, we have released our policy paper which sets out a number of recommendations that urge all levels of government to take prompt action to foster a thriving business environment while addressing the critical housing needs of the community
A key purpose of the Chamber is to advocate on critical issues on behalf of our members and the Whitsunday business community more broadly. Our advocacy work ensures we deal, negotiate, and participate in any forum that gets our message across on behalf of our members. Please visit the Advocacy page on the Chamber’s website for updates on our advocacy priorities.
In May we launched our Vision for the Whitsundays research and advocacy project. Later this month, we will be releasing news of how you can have your say on what the future could look like and what we need to do now to future proof tomorrow. You will be able to participate by either making a formal submission to the project, completing a short online survey, or registering to attend an interactive roundtable discussion. Make sure you are registered via our website to receive Chamber news and updates.
Soon we will be revealing the Chamber’s new 5-year strategy, an ambitious plan to drive sustainable business growth and connectivity throughout the Whitsunday region.
Please join us at our Thursday 13 July event in Proserpine to hear of these plans, initiatives, and the launch of our new membership offerings that aim to support local business growth and success. Our July event is open to all, and you can register today on our website or by contacting the Chamber team on admin@whitsundaycoastchamber.com.au
by Chamber President, Allan Milostic