The Allan Labor Government is getting more Victorians into work and boosting the state’s economy – with the Mid-Year Financial Report reporting a strong labour market and a growing economy.
Published today, the Mid-Year Financial Report shows that 124,000 Victorians secured employment in the 12 months to December 2023 – outperforming every other state in jobs created.
Victoria leads the country in creating employment opportunities, with 528,000 more Victorians in jobs by the end of 2023 than at the COVID peak in September 2020 – exceeding the Government’s Jobs Plan target of creating 400,000 new jobs by 2025.
The total number of Victorians in work was at a near-record 3.68 million in December, and the state’s unemployment rate is historically low. Workforce participation and the share of working-age Victorians in employment were also at near-record levels in December.
Victoria’s economy is now 8.6 per cent larger, in real terms, than it was before the COVID-19 pandemic, with gross state product increasing by 2.6 per cent in 2022-23 and Deloitte Access Economics forecasting that Victoria will lead all states in economic growth over the next five years.
The latest ABS figures confirm that business investment in Victoria grew by 11.3 per cent in the year to December, well above the national average and more than double the rate for New South Wales. Victoria’s exports of goods and services also grew by more than 20 per cent – more than any other state and five times the national figure.
The Government’s investment in infrastructure was $12 billion for the period to 31 December 2023 – this ongoing investment supports the delivery of high-quality services for Victorians and creates jobs.
Victoria’s general government sector operating deficit of $4.2 billion in the six months to 31 December is consistent with the same period last year and the full-year estimate in the 2023-24 Budget Update.
Full-year results cannot be extrapolated from the half-year results, which reflect the seasonal distribution of expenditure and revenue. For example, grant revenue from the Commonwealth Government, which is the source of around 50 per cent of Victorian revenue, is generally received later in the financial year.
Quotes attributable to Treasurer Tim Pallas
“Our economic strategy is all about creating jobs, keeping local communities strong, and encouraging businesses to invest and expand their workforces.”
“This year’s Budget will continue to deliver the promises we made at the last election and protect the jobs and services that Victorian families rely on.”
The Allan Labor Government is getting more Victorians into work and boosting the state’s economy – with the Mid-Year Financial Report reporting a strong labour market and a growing economy.
Published today, the Mid-Year Financial Report shows that 124,000 Victorians secured employment in the 12 months to December 2023 – outperforming every other state in jobs created.
Victoria leads the country in creating employment opportunities, with 528,000 more Victorians in jobs by the end of 2023 than at the COVID peak in September 2020 – exceeding the Government’s Jobs Plan target of creating 400,000 new jobs by 2025.
The total number of Victorians in work was at a near-record 3.68 million in December, and the state’s unemployment rate is historically low. Workforce participation and the share of working-age Victorians in employment were also at near-record levels in December.
Victoria’s economy is now 8.6 per cent larger, in real terms, than it was before the COVID-19 pandemic, with gross state product increasing by 2.6 per cent in 2022-23 and Deloitte Access Economics forecasting that Victoria will lead all states in economic growth over the next five years.
The latest ABS figures confirm that business investment in Victoria grew by 11.3 per cent in the year to December, well above the national average and more than double the rate for New South Wales. Victoria’s exports of goods and services also grew by more than 20 per cent – more than any other state and five times the national figure.
The Government’s investment in infrastructure was $12 billion for the period to 31 December 2023 – this ongoing investment supports the delivery of high-quality services for Victorians and creates jobs.
Victoria’s general government sector operating deficit of $4.2 billion in the six months to 31 December is consistent with the same period last year and the full-year estimate in the 2023-24 Budget Update.
Full-year results cannot be extrapolated from the half-year results, which reflect the seasonal distribution of expenditure and revenue. For example, grant revenue from the Commonwealth Government, which is the source of around 50 per cent of Victorian revenue, is generally received later in the financial year.
Quotes attributable to Treasurer Tim Pallas
“Our economic strategy is all about creating jobs, keeping local communities strong, and encouraging businesses to invest and expand their workforces.”
“This year’s Budget will continue to deliver the promises we made at the last election and protect the jobs and services that Victorian families rely on.”
The Asia Pacific Financial and Innovation Symposium will be held in Melbourne this year thanks to support from the Allan Labor Government.
Minister for Economic Growth Tim Pallas today announced the inaugural global financial conference will be hosted in Melbourne - demonstrating that Victoria is the place to be for financial services and business events.
Delivered by Visit Victoria and the Melbourne Convention Bureau, the one-day exposition will be the first of its kind for the region. Thousands of financial leaders from around the world will meet on April 16 to discuss industry trends in artificial intelligence, technology, energy transition and social governance with an Asia Pacific focus.
The program features local and global industry experts and thought leaders, including Lee Ainslie
(Maverick Capital), Henry Cornell (Cornell Capital), Robert Kapito (Blackrock), Kathleen McCarthy (Blackstone), Steve Schwarzman (Blackstone) and James Zelter (Apollo).
The event will showcase Victoria’s robust economy and capacity for world-class events, bringing together major global financial influencers to attract more international investment to our state.
Victoria is a leading destination for financial services with the sector employing more than 120,000 people and contributing $47 billion each year to the local economy.
The state's business events sector is also a major driver of the Victorian economy – generating an estimated $12.6 billion annually and supporting more than 84,000 jobs.
To register for the conference, visit apfis.com.au.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Economic Growth Tim Pallas
“Events like this build on our strong record of attracting top financial businesses to Victoria, creating economic growth and thousands of jobs.”
“Financial services are an important part of Victoria’s economy and this inaugural global expo in Melbourne will provide an opportunity for our local industry to showcase our capabilities on the world stage.”
Quote attributable to Minister for Sport, Tourism and Major Events Steve Dimopoulos
“Securing this event demonstrates Victoria’s world-class business events industry and ability to attract global leaders to experience everything our state has to offer - supporting local business, jobs and Victoria’s economy.”
The Asia Pacific Financial and Innovation Symposium will be held in Melbourne this year thanks to support from the Allan Labor Government.
Minister for Economic Growth Tim Pallas today announced the inaugural global financial conference will be hosted in Melbourne - demonstrating that Victoria is the place to be for financial services and business events.
Delivered by Visit Victoria and the Melbourne Convention Bureau, the one-day exposition will be the first of its kind for the region. Thousands of financial leaders from around the world will meet on April 16 to discuss industry trends in artificial intelligence, technology, energy transition and social governance with an Asia Pacific focus.
The program features local and global industry experts and thought leaders, including Lee Ainslie
(Maverick Capital), Henry Cornell (Cornell Capital), Robert Kapito (Blackrock), Kathleen McCarthy (Blackstone), Steve Schwarzman (Blackstone) and James Zelter (Apollo).
The event will showcase Victoria’s robust economy and capacity for world-class events, bringing together major global financial influencers to attract more international investment to our state.
Victoria is a leading destination for financial services with the sector employing more than 120,000 people and contributing $47 billion each year to the local economy.
The state's business events sector is also a major driver of the Victorian economy – generating an estimated $12.6 billion annually and supporting more than 84,000 jobs.
To register for the conference, visit apfis.com.au.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Economic Growth Tim Pallas
“Events like this build on our strong record of attracting top financial businesses to Victoria, creating economic growth and thousands of jobs.”
“Financial services are an important part of Victoria’s economy and this inaugural global expo in Melbourne will provide an opportunity for our local industry to showcase our capabilities on the world stage.”
Quote attributable to Minister for Sport, Tourism and Major Events Steve Dimopoulos
“Securing this event demonstrates Victoria’s world-class business events industry and ability to attract global leaders to experience everything our state has to offer - supporting local business, jobs and Victoria’s economy.”
The Allan Labor Government is supporting young people in Wyndham with a newly refurbished Youth Hub providing tailored services and community connections.
Minister for Youth Natalie Suleyman today visited Wyndham City Council to open the new Wyndham Youth Services at Hoppers Crossing, which received $150,000 through the 2022/23 Youth Hubs Grant Program.
Wyndham Youth Services has been open since 2003 and provides a multi-use space for young people aged 12-25 to access counselling, employment support and sport and recreation programs.
It also offers a safe and welcoming space for young people to come together, network and learn, with other youth service providers in the municipality now in the same building.
Co-designed by young people to ensure the space is safe, appropriate, and tailored to their needs, the refurbishment has included upgrades to consulting rooms, the foyer and commercial kitchen and a dedicated multipurpose sensory space.
The Youth Hubs Grant Program was funded as part of the Labor Government’s five-year Youth Strategy ‘Our promise, Your future’ to upgrade and develop youth hubs in outer metropolitan Melbourne.
Quote attributable to Minister for Youth Natalie Suleyman
“This upgraded Youth Hub in the western suburbs is a one-stop hub, making services more accessible to local young people.”
Quote attributable to Wyndham City Council Mayor Jennie Barrera
“Wyndham City and the Allan Labor Government have partnered together to fund the refurbishment of this popular youth space, ensuring it is welcoming and engaging for young people in Wyndham.”
Quote attributable to the Member for Tarneit Dylan Wight
“The outer western region is a growing community, and our young people now have a dedicated space to learn and grow.”
Quote attributable to the Member for Point Cook Mathew Hilakari
“From employment supports, counselling, and other key services, this space will be an active hub for local young people.”
Quote attributable to the Member for Laverton Sarah Connolly
“Young people are a vital part of our communities and this Youth Hub will improve their access to safe spaces and supports.”
Quote attributable to the Member for Werribee Tim Pallas
“These improved facilities provide young people in Wyndham with a one stop shop for wellbeing and connection.”
The Allan Labor Government is supporting young people in Wyndham with a newly refurbished Youth Hub providing tailored services and community connections.
Minister for Youth Natalie Suleyman today visited Wyndham City Council to open the new Wyndham Youth Services at Hoppers Crossing, which received $150,000 through the 2022/23 Youth Hubs Grant Program.
Wyndham Youth Services has been open since 2003 and provides a multi-use space for young people aged 12-25 to access counselling, employment support and sport and recreation programs.
It also offers a safe and welcoming space for young people to come together, network and learn, with other youth service providers in the municipality now in the same building.
Co-designed by young people to ensure the space is safe, appropriate, and tailored to their needs, the refurbishment has included upgrades to consulting rooms, the foyer and commercial kitchen and a dedicated multipurpose sensory space.
The Youth Hubs Grant Program was funded as part of the Labor Government’s five-year Youth Strategy ‘Our promise, Your future’ to upgrade and develop youth hubs in outer metropolitan Melbourne.
Quote attributable to Minister for Youth Natalie Suleyman
“This upgraded Youth Hub in the western suburbs is a one-stop hub, making services more accessible to local young people.”
Quote attributable to Wyndham City Council Mayor Jennie Barrera
“Wyndham City and the Allan Labor Government have partnered together to fund the refurbishment of this popular youth space, ensuring it is welcoming and engaging for young people in Wyndham.”
Quote attributable to the Member for Tarneit Dylan Wight
“The outer western region is a growing community, and our young people now have a dedicated space to learn and grow.”
Quote attributable to the Member for Point Cook Mathew Hilakari
“From employment supports, counselling, and other key services, this space will be an active hub for local young people.”
Quote attributable to the Member for Laverton Sarah Connolly
“Young people are a vital part of our communities and this Youth Hub will improve their access to safe spaces and supports.”
Quote attributable to the Member for Werribee Tim Pallas
“These improved facilities provide young people in Wyndham with a one stop shop for wellbeing and connection.”
Wastewater treatment in Melbourne’s west is about to be transformed thanks to a $711 million investment to modernise the plant to ensure the health and sanitation needs of Victoria’s growing population are met for generations to come.
Minister for Water Harriet Shing today announced the start of works on a new Resource Recovery and Re-Use Complex – the first major milestone in the modernisation of the Western Treatment Plant.
Melbourne’s population is set to double by 2050 and the upgraded to the Western Treatment Plant is key to ensuring Melbourne’s infrastructure is equipped to meet future demands. The project will deliver an additional 95 billion litres per year in primary treatment capacity.
The Western Treatment Plant is a world leader in environmentally-friendly sewage treatment, and one of Victoria’s most unlikely hidden treasures – doubling as a working farm and internationally-recognised bird habitat, including some of the world’s species such as the critically-endangered, orange-bellied parrot and growling grass frog.
When it was first established in the 1890s, the Western Treatment Plant transformed Melbourne’s public health and sanitation – now it processes more than 182,500 million litres every year while using a low-cost, low-energy treatment processes.
The Resource Recovery and Re-Use Complex will enhance sewage treatment, minimize odors, capture carbon, and manage waste sustainably. These improvements, including updated treatment methods and waste management facilities.
For more information, visit melbournewater.com.au/water-and-environment/climate-change/our-path-net-zero.
Quote attributable to Minister for Water Harriet Shing
“Innovation and efficiency in wastewater treatment has enabled Victoria to lead in adaptation to climate change, our circular economy and delivering large-scale improvements to liveability. And better wastewater treatment means we’re also well-equipped to manage the challenges of population growth.”
Quote attributable to Member for Werribee Tim Pallas
"This crucial investment in modernising wastewater treatment in Melbourne’s West will not only future-proof the health and sanitation needs of Melburnians but underscores our commitment to net-zero emissions by 2045 - ensuring a sustainable climate-resilient future for all Victorians."
Quote attributable to Member for Tarneit Dylan Wight
“The new Western Treatment Plant Resource Recovery and Re-Use Complex will support thriving, healthy and growing communities.”
Quote attributable to Melbourne Water Managing Director Dr. Nerina Di Lorenzo
“The Resource Recovery and Re-Use Complex is a major milestone in the transformation of the Western Treatment Plant and will enable rapid evolution of the site to meet the needs of the next decade and beyond.”
Wastewater treatment in Melbourne’s west is about to be transformed thanks to a $711 million investment to modernise the plant to ensure the health and sanitation needs of Victoria’s growing population are met for generations to come.
Minister for Water Harriet Shing today announced the start of works on a new Resource Recovery and Re-Use Complex – the first major milestone in the modernisation of the Western Treatment Plant.
Melbourne’s population is set to double by 2050 and the upgraded to the Western Treatment Plant is key to ensuring Melbourne’s infrastructure is equipped to meet future demands. The project will deliver an additional 95 billion litres per year in primary treatment capacity.
The Western Treatment Plant is a world leader in environmentally-friendly sewage treatment, and one of Victoria’s most unlikely hidden treasures – doubling as a working farm and internationally-recognised bird habitat, including some of the world’s species such as the critically-endangered, orange-bellied parrot and growling grass frog.
When it was first established in the 1890s, the Western Treatment Plant transformed Melbourne’s public health and sanitation – now it processes more than 182,500 million litres every year while using a low-cost, low-energy treatment processes.
The Resource Recovery and Re-Use Complex will enhance sewage treatment, minimize odors, capture carbon, and manage waste sustainably. These improvements, including updated treatment methods and waste management facilities.
For more information, visit melbournewater.com.au/water-and-environment/climate-change/our-path-net-zero.
Quote attributable to Minister for Water Harriet Shing
“Innovation and efficiency in wastewater treatment has enabled Victoria to lead in adaptation to climate change, our circular economy and delivering large-scale improvements to liveability. And better wastewater treatment means we’re also well-equipped to manage the challenges of population growth.”
Quote attributable to Member for Werribee Tim Pallas
"This crucial investment in modernising wastewater treatment in Melbourne’s West will not only future-proof the health and sanitation needs of Melburnians but underscores our commitment to net-zero emissions by 2045 - ensuring a sustainable climate-resilient future for all Victorians."
Quote attributable to Member for Tarneit Dylan Wight
“The new Western Treatment Plant Resource Recovery and Re-Use Complex will support thriving, healthy and growing communities.”
Quote attributable to Melbourne Water Managing Director Dr. Nerina Di Lorenzo
“The Resource Recovery and Re-Use Complex is a major milestone in the transformation of the Western Treatment Plant and will enable rapid evolution of the site to meet the needs of the next decade and beyond.”
Thousands of solar panels will soon roll out across Victorian apartment buildings – slashing power bills by around $500 a year thanks to the Albanese and Allan Labor Government’s Solar for Apartments program.
Applications are now open for the first round of the $16 million program - which will make it cheaper and easier for apartment residents to install rooftop solar.
Around 12 per cent of Victoria’s 2.5 million households live in apartments, with around 63 per cent of these occupied by renters.
Successful applicants will receive rebates of up to $2,800 per apartment, or up to $140,000 per building for up to 50 apartments to install solar panels on their rooftop.
Solar for Apartments will help around 5,000 households including owners and renters to save money on the upfront cost of installing solar, cut their energy bills, improve the value of the apartments, and reduce emissions.
The take up of solar on apartments has been much lower due to the complexity and costs, and Solar for Apartments will help fix this by reducing upfront costs and streamlining the installation process.
Rebates will be available to apartment buildings up to eight storeys with between 5 to 50 apartments – ensuring the solar installation can provide meaningful energy bill savings for residents.
Owners corporations will have the choice to install either multiple individual solar PV systems, a single large solar PV system coupled with solar sharing technology, or a combination of both.
There have already been over 500 registrations of interest, including owners corporations, apartment residents including owner-occupiers and renters, and rental providers – showing the huge demand for accessible solar.
The program has been developed in consultation with industry, local government, and strata community representatives. Round 1 applications are open until April 15. For more information visit solar.vic.gov.au.
This program forms part of the Albanese Labor Government’s Community Solar Banks initiative - unlocking access to shared solar for 25,000 homes across Australia who have found it difficult to access solar in the past.
Quote attributable to Victorian Minister for Energy and Resources Lily D’Ambrosio
“This is all about making it easier for Victorians that live in apartments to install solar - so they can slash their power bills by $500 and help us cut emissions.”
Quote attributable to Commonwealth Minister for Energy Chris Bowen
“We want to make it cheaper and easier for apartment residents to install solar on their rooftop so they too can take advantage of cleaner, cheaper solar to provide cost-of-living relief.”
Quote attributable to Member for Werribee Tim Pallas
“By easing upfront costs, this program will allow more residents in Werribee to receive the benefits from solar panels.”
Thousands of solar panels will soon roll out across Victorian apartment buildings – slashing power bills by around $500 a year thanks to the Albanese and Allan Labor Government’s Solar for Apartments program.
Applications are now open for the first round of the $16 million program - which will make it cheaper and easier for apartment residents to install rooftop solar.
Around 12 per cent of Victoria’s 2.5 million households live in apartments, with around 63 per cent of these occupied by renters.
Successful applicants will receive rebates of up to $2,800 per apartment, or up to $140,000 per building for up to 50 apartments to install solar panels on their rooftop.
Solar for Apartments will help around 5,000 households including owners and renters to save money on the upfront cost of installing solar, cut their energy bills, improve the value of the apartments, and reduce emissions.
The take up of solar on apartments has been much lower due to the complexity and costs, and Solar for Apartments will help fix this by reducing upfront costs and streamlining the installation process.
Rebates will be available to apartment buildings up to eight storeys with between 5 to 50 apartments – ensuring the solar installation can provide meaningful energy bill savings for residents.
Owners corporations will have the choice to install either multiple individual solar PV systems, a single large solar PV system coupled with solar sharing technology, or a combination of both.
There have already been over 500 registrations of interest, including owners corporations, apartment residents including owner-occupiers and renters, and rental providers – showing the huge demand for accessible solar.
The program has been developed in consultation with industry, local government, and strata community representatives. Round 1 applications are open until April 15. For more information visit solar.vic.gov.au.
This program forms part of the Albanese Labor Government’s Community Solar Banks initiative - unlocking access to shared solar for 25,000 homes across Australia who have found it difficult to access solar in the past.
Quote attributable to Victorian Minister for Energy and Resources Lily D’Ambrosio
“This is all about making it easier for Victorians that live in apartments to install solar - so they can slash their power bills by $500 and help us cut emissions.”
Quote attributable to Commonwealth Minister for Energy Chris Bowen
“We want to make it cheaper and easier for apartment residents to install solar on their rooftop so they too can take advantage of cleaner, cheaper solar to provide cost-of-living relief.”
Quote attributable to Member for Werribee Tim Pallas
“By easing upfront costs, this program will allow more residents in Werribee to receive the benefits from solar panels.”
Four new courses in hospitality, youth work and tourism are now available through the Victorian Government’s Free TAFE initiative giving Victorians more opportunities to learn new skills and grow their careers.
Member for Werribee Tim Pallas is encouraging prospective students to look at courses on offer through the Free TAFE initiative, providing Victorians with more access to vocational training.
Since the program was introduced in 2019 it has grown to include more than 80 TAFE qualifications and short courses.
This has helped more than 156,000 students who have saved almost $423 million in tuition fees since the program began, including more than 90,000 women who have gained new skills to benefit their careers.
Free TAFE is benefiting all Victorians, with a quarter of all Free TAFE students based in regional Victoria and more than 44,500 come from multicultural backgrounds.
With enrolments now open, students can kick start their careers or upskill to gain new experience or qualifications, across a range of sectors like nursing, building and construction, community services and cyber security.
The Free TAFE program is helping Victorians get the skills they need for the job they want, including in growth areas like clean energy, building the state’s future workforce as we transition to net-zero.
The Victorian Government is also backing the development of new clean energy skills and courses through the $50 million Clean Energy Fund, including projects at Federation TAFE in Ballarat, TAFE Gippsland in Morwell and South West TAFE in Warrnambool.
Free TAFE courses are available to all Victorians, regardless of their existing qualification level, and it’s also possible to do more than one Free TAFE course provided it’s within the same priority pathway.
The Victorian Budget 2023/24 invested more than $543 million in TAFE to help more Victorians get the skills they need with more subsidised courses and improved facilities, including funding for new TAFE campuses in Melton and Sunbury so more students can study closer to home.
Victoria’s TAFE network is a vital part of our state’s education system, helping students become job-ready faster and providing the skills we need to grow our economy.
For the full list of Free TAFE courses visit: vic.gov.au/free-tafe
Quote attributable to Member for Werribee Tim Pallas
“We know that TAFE is an equal choice to uni- and if you enrol in a Free TAFE course, you can get started in your career without debt.”
Four new courses in hospitality, youth work and tourism are now available through the Victorian Government’s Free TAFE initiative giving Victorians more opportunities to learn new skills and grow their careers.
Member for Werribee Tim Pallas is encouraging prospective students to look at courses on offer through the Free TAFE initiative, providing Victorians with more access to vocational training.
Since the program was introduced in 2019 it has grown to include more than 80 TAFE qualifications and short courses.
This has helped more than 156,000 students who have saved almost $423 million in tuition fees since the program began, including more than 90,000 women who have gained new skills to benefit their careers.
Free TAFE is benefiting all Victorians, with a quarter of all Free TAFE students based in regional Victoria and more than 44,500 come from multicultural backgrounds.
With enrolments now open, students can kick start their careers or upskill to gain new experience or qualifications, across a range of sectors like nursing, building and construction, community services and cyber security.
The Free TAFE program is helping Victorians get the skills they need for the job they want, including in growth areas like clean energy, building the state’s future workforce as we transition to net-zero.
The Victorian Government is also backing the development of new clean energy skills and courses through the $50 million Clean Energy Fund, including projects at Federation TAFE in Ballarat, TAFE Gippsland in Morwell and South West TAFE in Warrnambool.
Free TAFE courses are available to all Victorians, regardless of their existing qualification level, and it’s also possible to do more than one Free TAFE course provided it’s within the same priority pathway.
The Victorian Budget 2023/24 invested more than $543 million in TAFE to help more Victorians get the skills they need with more subsidised courses and improved facilities, including funding for new TAFE campuses in Melton and Sunbury so more students can study closer to home.
Victoria’s TAFE network is a vital part of our state’s education system, helping students become job-ready faster and providing the skills we need to grow our economy.
For the full list of Free TAFE courses visit: vic.gov.au/free-tafe
Quote attributable to Member for Werribee Tim Pallas
“We know that TAFE is an equal choice to uni- and if you enrol in a Free TAFE course, you can get started in your career without debt.”
The Allan Labor Government is backing more women and girls in Werribee from all backgrounds to get involved in the sport they love.
Member for Werribee Tim Pallas announced applications for the 2023-24 Change Our Game Community Activation Grants program have opened.
Grants of up to $10,000 are available to support community sport and recreation clubs or organisations to increase participation, build capability, promote gender equity and support the professional development of women volunteering and working in community sport.
In this round of the program there’s also a strong focus on supporting club or organisation initiatives that encourage the equitable inclusion of women and girls from all backgrounds and experiences.
The program is part of the Government’s Change Our Game initiative, working to play sport more accessible, increasing local participation and providing opportunities for all Victorians to be leaders in their local sporting community.
Now in its seventh year, the Change Our Game Community Activation Grants program has provided more than $2.2 million towards 461 grants that have benefitted community sport and active recreation clubs and organisations across the state.
Together with the Fair Access Policy, launched by the Labor Government in August 2022, Change Our Game Community Activation Grants provides a great opportunity for clubs and organisations to extend equitable access to, and use of, community sports infrastructure, and build participants’ skills and knowledge.
These grants are part of the Government’s $18.8 million investment in the Office for Women in Sport and Recreation and the Change Our Game initiative since 2016.
Applications for this program close at 5pm AEDT, Monday 4 March 2024.
For more information about Change Our Game programs visit changeourgame.vic.gov.au.
Quote attributable to Minister for Community Sport Ros Spence
“This program is a fantastic opportunity for community sport and recreation clubs to take a positive step towards making community sport more accessible and inclusive for everyone.”
Quotes attributable to Member for Werribee Tim Pallas
“The Change Our Game Community Activation Grants program is a fantastic opportunity for our Werribee community sport and active recreation clubs to showcase the important roles women and girls play and deserve. I encourage all eligible organisations to consider applying.”
The Allan Labor Government is backing more women and girls in Werribee from all backgrounds to get involved in the sport they love.
Member for Werribee Tim Pallas announced applications for the 2023-24 Change Our Game Community Activation Grants program have opened.
Grants of up to $10,000 are available to support community sport and recreation clubs or organisations to increase participation, build capability, promote gender equity and support the professional development of women volunteering and working in community sport.
In this round of the program there’s also a strong focus on supporting club or organisation initiatives that encourage the equitable inclusion of women and girls from all backgrounds and experiences.
The program is part of the Government’s Change Our Game initiative, working to play sport more accessible, increasing local participation and providing opportunities for all Victorians to be leaders in their local sporting community.
Now in its seventh year, the Change Our Game Community Activation Grants program has provided more than $2.2 million towards 461 grants that have benefitted community sport and active recreation clubs and organisations across the state.
Together with the Fair Access Policy, launched by the Labor Government in August 2022, Change Our Game Community Activation Grants provides a great opportunity for clubs and organisations to extend equitable access to, and use of, community sports infrastructure, and build participants’ skills and knowledge.
These grants are part of the Government’s $18.8 million investment in the Office for Women in Sport and Recreation and the Change Our Game initiative since 2016.
Applications for this program close at 5pm AEDT, Monday 4 March 2024.
For more information about Change Our Game programs visit changeourgame.vic.gov.au.
Quote attributable to Minister for Community Sport Ros Spence
“This program is a fantastic opportunity for community sport and recreation clubs to take a positive step towards making community sport more accessible and inclusive for everyone.”
Quotes attributable to Member for Werribee Tim Pallas
“The Change Our Game Community Activation Grants program is a fantastic opportunity for our Werribee community sport and active recreation clubs to showcase the important roles women and girls play and deserve. I encourage all eligible organisations to consider applying.”
The Allan Labor Government is helping to improve habitats for native wildlife across Victoria’s iconic urban rivers and creeks through new funding boost for environmental restoration projects.
Minister for Water Harriet Shing announced the first round of successful grants through the $10 million Green Links Grant Program, which will support local projects along Victoria’s urban waterways to deliver up to 300 hectares of revegetated land for communities to enjoy and wildlife to thrive.
Victoria’s waterways are home to more than 1,800 species of native plants and 600 species of native animals – and revegetation projects like this are essential to waterway and their parkland corridors.
Community groups, water or land managers, Traditional Owners and local councils received up to $200,000 for small projects and up to $2 million for large-scale projects.
This included $152,796 from the Green Links Fund to support the Werribee River Association deliver their project 'Restoring Werribee River Park' right here in Wyndham, providing our community with more green spaces to enjoy nature.
As well as $114,408 from the Green Links Fund to support Wyndham City Council in fast-tracking revegetation works on Tarneet Islands on Werribee River, Werribee.
The Green Links Program also provided vital funding to waterways included in the Waterways of the West Action Plan, the Rivers of the Barwon (Barre Warre Yulluk) Action Plan and Burndap Birrarung burndap umarkoo – the Yarra Strategic Plan.
Victoria’s urban waterways – including the Yarra, Maribyrnong, Werribee, Barwon, and the many tributaries in their catchment areas – hold significant social, cultural, environmental, and economic value to Traditional Owners and community.
This program will bring together community groups, Traditional Owners and councils to ensure the management of waterways and their lands realises the cultural values of Traditional Owners and community aspirations.
The Labor Government is investing $10 million over three years into the grant program. This complements the more than $300 million invested over four years to improve the health of waterways and catchments across regional Victoria and Melbourne – building on a further $224 million towards enhancing in regional waterways,
For more information on the Green Links Grants Program and future funding opportunities, visit https://www.water.vic.gov.au/grants/green-links-grants.
Quote attributable to Member for Werribee Tim Pallas
“The Werribee River is a cherished biodiversity corridor, and these grants will help ensure local ecosystems remain healthy and resilient as our climate changes and our population grows.”
Quote attributable to Member for Point Cook Mathew Hilakari
“These grants will support these crucial local projects to boost the liveability and improve the condition and long-term health of the rivers and surrounding parks.”
The Allan Labor Government is helping to improve habitats for native wildlife across Victoria’s iconic urban rivers and creeks through new funding boost for environmental restoration projects.
Minister for Water Harriet Shing announced the first round of successful grants through the $10 million Green Links Grant Program, which will support local projects along Victoria’s urban waterways to deliver up to 300 hectares of revegetated land for communities to enjoy and wildlife to thrive.
Victoria’s waterways are home to more than 1,800 species of native plants and 600 species of native animals – and revegetation projects like this are essential to waterway and their parkland corridors.
Community groups, water or land managers, Traditional Owners and local councils received up to $200,000 for small projects and up to $2 million for large-scale projects.
This included $152,796 from the Green Links Fund to support the Werribee River Association deliver their project 'Restoring Werribee River Park' right here in Wyndham, providing our community with more green spaces to enjoy nature.
As well as $114,408 from the Green Links Fund to support Wyndham City Council in fast-tracking revegetation works on Tarneet Islands on Werribee River, Werribee.
The Green Links Program also provided vital funding to waterways included in the Waterways of the West Action Plan, the Rivers of the Barwon (Barre Warre Yulluk) Action Plan and Burndap Birrarung burndap umarkoo – the Yarra Strategic Plan.
Victoria’s urban waterways – including the Yarra, Maribyrnong, Werribee, Barwon, and the many tributaries in their catchment areas – hold significant social, cultural, environmental, and economic value to Traditional Owners and community.
This program will bring together community groups, Traditional Owners and councils to ensure the management of waterways and their lands realises the cultural values of Traditional Owners and community aspirations.
The Labor Government is investing $10 million over three years into the grant program. This complements the more than $300 million invested over four years to improve the health of waterways and catchments across regional Victoria and Melbourne – building on a further $224 million towards enhancing in regional waterways,
For more information on the Green Links Grants Program and future funding opportunities, visit https://www.water.vic.gov.au/grants/green-links-grants.
Quote attributable to Member for Werribee Tim Pallas
“The Werribee River is a cherished biodiversity corridor, and these grants will help ensure local ecosystems remain healthy and resilient as our climate changes and our population grows.”
Quote attributable to Member for Point Cook Mathew Hilakari
“These grants will support these crucial local projects to boost the liveability and improve the condition and long-term health of the rivers and surrounding parks.”
A new Allan Labor Government grant program will help Victorian medtech startups and scaleups accelerate their pathway to market, increasing healthcare innovation and creating high-skilled jobs in one of the state’s fastest growing industries.
Minister for Jobs and Industry Natalie Hutchins today launched the $1 million MedTech Market Growth Program, providing matched grants of $50,000 to 20 medtech startups and scaleups giving them the skills, services and resources they need to push their life-saving medical products to market.
Delivered through a collaboration between the Australian Medtech Manufacturing Centre and LaunchVic, the program will support scaling medtech companies to drive innovation, attract investment, fast-track market growth and create new local jobs.
Medtech companies facing barriers to entering the market will be given the opportunity to access specialist business services, advice and expertise such as conducting customer market analysis, and navigating rigorous regulatory approval processes.
The Labor Government’s startup agency LaunchVic has a strong track record in delivering targeted programs to accelerate business growth, contributing to the rapid rise of the state’s startup ecosystem – now worth more than $100 billion and employing more than 26,000 Victorians.
The $20 million Australian Medtech Manufacturing Centre has invested in the expansion of Victoria’s medtech manufacturing since 2020, supporting successful Victorian companies including Navi Technologies, Cyban and 4DMedical to boost product development and local capabilities.
Medtech is one of the fastest growing sectors in Victoria’s economy, with 650 medtech companies employing approximately 6,000 people and generating $1.4 billion in value.
For information on how to apply, visit: launchvic.org/grants
Quote attributable to Minister for Jobs and Industry Natalie Hutchins
“This program will help build a pipeline of export-ready medtech startups in Victoria, while supporting the development of innovative home-grown products that can help save lives.”
Quote attributable to Minister for Economic Growth Tim Pallas
“We're ensuring local medtech startups have what they need to get into market, scale up and increase production, strengthening our reputation as a global leader in this field.”
Quote attributable to LaunchVic CEO Dr Kate Cornick
“This program will ensure the sector's sustainable growth by helping startups with the skills, knowledge and resources they need to fast-track market growth locally and globally."
A new Allan Labor Government grant program will help Victorian medtech startups and scaleups accelerate their pathway to market, increasing healthcare innovation and creating high-skilled jobs in one of the state’s fastest growing industries.
Minister for Jobs and Industry Natalie Hutchins today launched the $1 million MedTech Market Growth Program, providing matched grants of $50,000 to 20 medtech startups and scaleups giving them the skills, services and resources they need to push their life-saving medical products to market.
Delivered through a collaboration between the Australian Medtech Manufacturing Centre and LaunchVic, the program will support scaling medtech companies to drive innovation, attract investment, fast-track market growth and create new local jobs.
Medtech companies facing barriers to entering the market will be given the opportunity to access specialist business services, advice and expertise such as conducting customer market analysis, and navigating rigorous regulatory approval processes.
The Labor Government’s startup agency LaunchVic has a strong track record in delivering targeted programs to accelerate business growth, contributing to the rapid rise of the state’s startup ecosystem – now worth more than $100 billion and employing more than 26,000 Victorians.
The $20 million Australian Medtech Manufacturing Centre has invested in the expansion of Victoria’s medtech manufacturing since 2020, supporting successful Victorian companies including Navi Technologies, Cyban and 4DMedical to boost product development and local capabilities.
Medtech is one of the fastest growing sectors in Victoria’s economy, with 650 medtech companies employing approximately 6,000 people and generating $1.4 billion in value.
For information on how to apply, visit: launchvic.org/grants
Quote attributable to Minister for Jobs and Industry Natalie Hutchins
“This program will help build a pipeline of export-ready medtech startups in Victoria, while supporting the development of innovative home-grown products that can help save lives.”
Quote attributable to Minister for Economic Growth Tim Pallas
“We're ensuring local medtech startups have what they need to get into market, scale up and increase production, strengthening our reputation as a global leader in this field.”
Quote attributable to LaunchVic CEO Dr Kate Cornick
“This program will ensure the sector's sustainable growth by helping startups with the skills, knowledge and resources they need to fast-track market growth locally and globally."
Tim PALLAS (Werribee – Treasurer, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Economic Growth) (14:25): I am pleased to update the house on the true state of business creation in the state of Victoria. We all saw earlier this week data that was presented from that pseudo think tank the Institute of Public Affairs with cherrypicked figures that claimed that business growth was down. Nothing could be further from the truth. In fact you would have to be a statistically challenged dullard to believe it. The fact is that over the past four years more than 107,000 new businesses have been created in Victoria, more than any other state – in fact more than Queensland, Western Australia, South Australia and Tasmania combined. 165,000 businesses have been created since this government came to office.
Members interjecting.
Tim PALLAS: 165,000 is six times more, year on year, every year that we have been in government compared to the number of businesses created when those economic geniuses who cannot even read statistics were last in government.
When you look at the fact that our startup sector has grown from $5.8 billion in 2016 to $103 billion today, it stands to reason – with 750,000 new jobs over the past decade – that businesses continue to grow and they continue to employ, and Victorians are benefiting. That is why we have the lowest unemployment level in the nation. How do people get employed? Well, businesses employ them. I think we can safely assume that the lion’s share of employment is being done by businesses that are growing at record levels, six times faster than those opposite.
Tim PALLAS (Werribee – Treasurer, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Economic Growth) (14:25): I am pleased to update the house on the true state of business creation in the state of Victoria. We all saw earlier this week data that was presented from that pseudo think tank the Institute of Public Affairs with cherrypicked figures that claimed that business growth was down. Nothing could be further from the truth. In fact you would have to be a statistically challenged dullard to believe it. The fact is that over the past four years more than 107,000 new businesses have been created in Victoria, more than any other state – in fact more than Queensland, Western Australia, South Australia and Tasmania combined. 165,000 businesses have been created since this government came to office.
Members interjecting.
Tim PALLAS: 165,000 is six times more, year on year, every year that we have been in government compared to the number of businesses created when those economic geniuses who cannot even read statistics were last in government.
When you look at the fact that our startup sector has grown from $5.8 billion in 2016 to $103 billion today, it stands to reason – with 750,000 new jobs over the past decade – that businesses continue to grow and they continue to employ, and Victorians are benefiting. That is why we have the lowest unemployment level in the nation. How do people get employed? Well, businesses employ them. I think we can safely assume that the lion’s share of employment is being done by businesses that are growing at record levels, six times faster than those opposite.
Tim PALLAS (Werribee – Treasurer, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Economic Growth) (09:45): I also want to briefly just mention and congratulate Kano Ravalji, who has received an award recognising him for his contributions to the local community and has led youth empowerment in Wyndham.
Tim PALLAS (Werribee – Treasurer, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Economic Growth) (09:45): I also want to briefly just mention and congratulate Kano Ravalji, who has received an award recognising him for his contributions to the local community and has led youth empowerment in Wyndham.
Tim PALLAS (Werribee – Treasurer, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Economic Growth) (09:43): I rise to update the house on three new schools that have recently opened in my electorate. In our rapidly growing community access to education is vital. That is why the Allan Labor government invested more than $500 million in the 2022–23 state budget for the construction of new schools right across our great state. I congratulate Nganboo Borron School, Walcom Ngarrwa Secondary College and Laa Yulta Primary School on their recent opening. Of course more schools mean more local kids have more access to quality education in their immediate community. All these schools are equipped with modern learning areas, air conditioning and heating and outside shade sails for sun protection. I want to congratulate the principals respectively: Michele Marcu, Brad Moyle and Mark Zahra. I look forward to meeting with them all in due course.
As a result of the Allan Labor government’s investment, 50 per cent of all new schools opening this year are in the Wyndham LGA. These new schools highlight the needs of our growing youth community, and I wish all the students at these schools all the very best as they start or continue their education journey.
Tim PALLAS (Werribee – Treasurer, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Economic Growth) (09:43): I rise to update the house on three new schools that have recently opened in my electorate. In our rapidly growing community access to education is vital. That is why the Allan Labor government invested more than $500 million in the 2022–23 state budget for the construction of new schools right across our great state. I congratulate Nganboo Borron School, Walcom Ngarrwa Secondary College and Laa Yulta Primary School on their recent opening. Of course more schools mean more local kids have more access to quality education in their immediate community. All these schools are equipped with modern learning areas, air conditioning and heating and outside shade sails for sun protection. I want to congratulate the principals respectively: Michele Marcu, Brad Moyle and Mark Zahra. I look forward to meeting with them all in due course.
As a result of the Allan Labor government’s investment, 50 per cent of all new schools opening this year are in the Wyndham LGA. These new schools highlight the needs of our growing youth community, and I wish all the students at these schools all the very best as they start or continue their education journey.
Children in Werribee will have the chance to learn and play in the great outdoors, thanks to an expansion of bush kinder programs by the Allan Labor Government.
Member for Werribee announced Sparrow Early Learning Manor Lakes will receive a one-off grant of $6000 to offer a bush kinder program in 2024.
Bush kinder programs are delivered outdoors at places including parks, bushland and beaches - giving children a unique opportunity and freedom to learn through play with natural materials in outdoors.
The programs are educational and exciting – with a significant positive impact on a child’s development, as well as on their physical and mental health and wellbeing.
The $6000 grants will help kindergartens buy the equipment they need to run programs that focus on getting outside, playing with natural materials, and learning through activities such as climbing trees and watching wildlife.
Kindergartens without access to a suitable off-site location can use their grant funding to enhance the biodiversity of their existing outdoor environment.
The Labor Government is investing $3.6 million over four years to expand bush kinder programs in up to 600 kindergarten services across Victoria.
Through our nation-leading $14 billion Best Start, Best Life reforms over the next decade, the Labor Government is transforming kindergartens to give every Victorian child the best start to life, save families time and money, and support parents to return to work or study if they choose.
The 2024 expansion will see new bush kinder programs established in 52 local government areas, including 25 regional locations. Of the 150 kinders receiving one-off grants, 100 are in Melbourne.
Bush kinder programs funded in this grant round start at the beginning of Term 3, 2024.
Applications for the 2025 round of another 150 bush kinder grants will open in the second half of 2024.
To find out which kindergartens are receiving a bush kinder grant, visit vic.gov.au/bush-kinder-grants-program.
Quotes attributable to Member for Werribee Tim Pallas
“We’re supporting Sparrow Early Learning Manor Lakes in Werribee to start bush kinder programs, providing more children with opportunities to get outdoors and learn in a natural environment.”
“Bush kinder programs are not just fun and educational, they also help to keep kids active and connect them with nature – boosting their health, wellbeing and development.”
Children in Werribee will have the chance to learn and play in the great outdoors, thanks to an expansion of bush kinder programs by the Allan Labor Government.
Member for Werribee announced Sparrow Early Learning Manor Lakes will receive a one-off grant of $6000 to offer a bush kinder program in 2024.
Bush kinder programs are delivered outdoors at places including parks, bushland and beaches - giving children a unique opportunity and freedom to learn through play with natural materials in outdoors.
The programs are educational and exciting – with a significant positive impact on a child’s development, as well as on their physical and mental health and wellbeing.
The $6000 grants will help kindergartens buy the equipment they need to run programs that focus on getting outside, playing with natural materials, and learning through activities such as climbing trees and watching wildlife.
Kindergartens without access to a suitable off-site location can use their grant funding to enhance the biodiversity of their existing outdoor environment.
The Labor Government is investing $3.6 million over four years to expand bush kinder programs in up to 600 kindergarten services across Victoria.
Through our nation-leading $14 billion Best Start, Best Life reforms over the next decade, the Labor Government is transforming kindergartens to give every Victorian child the best start to life, save families time and money, and support parents to return to work or study if they choose.
The 2024 expansion will see new bush kinder programs established in 52 local government areas, including 25 regional locations. Of the 150 kinders receiving one-off grants, 100 are in Melbourne.
Bush kinder programs funded in this grant round start at the beginning of Term 3, 2024.
Applications for the 2025 round of another 150 bush kinder grants will open in the second half of 2024.
To find out which kindergartens are receiving a bush kinder grant, visit vic.gov.au/bush-kinder-grants-program.
Quotes attributable to Member for Werribee Tim Pallas
“We’re supporting Sparrow Early Learning Manor Lakes in Werribee to start bush kinder programs, providing more children with opportunities to get outdoors and learn in a natural environment.”
“Bush kinder programs are not just fun and educational, they also help to keep kids active and connect them with nature – boosting their health, wellbeing and development.”
The skills and achievements of Victoria’s young people will be on show right across the state later this year at a month-long festival supported by the Allan Labor Government.
Grants of $2,000 are available for sector organisations, local government, and schools in Werribee to partner with Victorians aged 12 to 25 to create a wide variety of youth-specific events.
Member for Werribee Tim Pallas said funding of $220,000 would be available for up to 110 events that will be designed for and by young Victorians.
Youth Fest kicks off in September, with this investment supporting young people to organise and deliver events, showcase their skills, share ideas, build social connections, and expand their networks.
In 2023, the Youth Fest program funded 111 activities including those focused on art, music, sport and theatre, as well as recreational and community festivals, giving young Victorians the chance to have their voices heard.
Applications are open until 15 March. To apply and to find out more about the grant program, visit https://www.vic.gov.au/youth-fest-grants.
Quotes attributable to Member for Werribee Tim Pallas
“The Allan Labor Government is proud to support this wonderful program, giving the young people of Werribee the opportunity to have their voices heard.”
“Victorian Youth Fest gives the young people in Werribee the chance to forge connections not only with their peers but also their community, as well as to lead positive change.”
The skills and achievements of Victoria’s young people will be on show right across the state later this year at a month-long festival supported by the Allan Labor Government.
Grants of $2,000 are available for sector organisations, local government, and schools in Werribee to partner with Victorians aged 12 to 25 to create a wide variety of youth-specific events.
Member for Werribee Tim Pallas said funding of $220,000 would be available for up to 110 events that will be designed for and by young Victorians.
Youth Fest kicks off in September, with this investment supporting young people to organise and deliver events, showcase their skills, share ideas, build social connections, and expand their networks.
In 2023, the Youth Fest program funded 111 activities including those focused on art, music, sport and theatre, as well as recreational and community festivals, giving young Victorians the chance to have their voices heard.
Applications are open until 15 March. To apply and to find out more about the grant program, visit https://www.vic.gov.au/youth-fest-grants.
Quotes attributable to Member for Werribee Tim Pallas
“The Allan Labor Government is proud to support this wonderful program, giving the young people of Werribee the opportunity to have their voices heard.”
“Victorian Youth Fest gives the young people in Werribee the chance to forge connections not only with their peers but also their community, as well as to lead positive change.”
Tim PALLAS (Werribee – Treasurer, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Economic Growth) (09:44): I rise to refer to my annual Endeavour Awards and recognise the student recipients who graduated in 2023. The Endeavour Awards are an opportunity for me as the local member to acknowledge those students in my electorate who have endeavoured to always do their best or who have demonstrated significant growth in their attitude and approach to their learning. These awards showcase more than just educational achievement; they are about the students’ character, their service to the community and those who always strive to do their best.
Each local school was asked to nominate a graduating student from year 6 and year 12. The year 12 recipients and their guests were welcomed to a morning tea that I hosted in December here at Parliament. Last year’s Endeavour Awards recipients include Basit Daif from Manor Lakes P–12 College, Finn Merryfull from Werribee Secondary College, Ellie Monk from Wyndham Central College and Zichen Ma from Heathdale Christian College. I want to thank all the recipients for joining me in Parliament House to celebrate their achievements and their nominations by their school communities to receive my awards. I wish them all the best for their future ambitions.
It is a pleasure and a privilege to acknowledge our young leaders of tomorrow and to embrace and encourage their aspirations for the future. I have no doubt in my mind that they will all go far.
Tim PALLAS (Werribee – Treasurer, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Economic Growth) (09:44): I rise to refer to my annual Endeavour Awards and recognise the student recipients who graduated in 2023. The Endeavour Awards are an opportunity for me as the local member to acknowledge those students in my electorate who have endeavoured to always do their best or who have demonstrated significant growth in their attitude and approach to their learning. These awards showcase more than just educational achievement; they are about the students’ character, their service to the community and those who always strive to do their best.
Each local school was asked to nominate a graduating student from year 6 and year 12. The year 12 recipients and their guests were welcomed to a morning tea that I hosted in December here at Parliament. Last year’s Endeavour Awards recipients include Basit Daif from Manor Lakes P–12 College, Finn Merryfull from Werribee Secondary College, Ellie Monk from Wyndham Central College and Zichen Ma from Heathdale Christian College. I want to thank all the recipients for joining me in Parliament House to celebrate their achievements and their nominations by their school communities to receive my awards. I wish them all the best for their future ambitions.
It is a pleasure and a privilege to acknowledge our young leaders of tomorrow and to embrace and encourage their aspirations for the future. I have no doubt in my mind that they will all go far.
Tim PALLAS (Werribee – Treasurer, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Economic Growth) (14:31): I am happy – in fact I am ecstatic, I am euphoric – to update the house on how the Allan Labor government is investing in Victorian families by growing our economic prosperity and creating the jobs of the future. That is right, we are investing in Victorians while those opposite are investing in their defamation lawyers’ Ferraris.
Victoria continues to be a star on the global stage. In the 2022–23 financial year our government secured foreign direct investment generating over 2500 jobs, $332 million in wages and $625 million in innovation expenditure. Excitingly, since 2003 Victoria now has more startups than our friends in New South Wales, with 3562 – not in per capita terms, in absolute terms. Think about that: since LaunchVic was established in 2016 the value of Victoria’s entire startup ecosystem has increased almost eighteenfold, from $5.8 billion to its current valuation of $103 billion. This is wealth and prosperity writ large. This is Victorians demonstrating to the world exactly how innovative and entrepreneurial we are.
The Allan government is continuing to assist Victorian businesses to trade in global markets. In 2022–23 we supported 8000 firms to achieve $704 million in export sales. Deloitte Access Economics recently forecast that Victoria would, to nobody’s surprise, over the next five years lead the nation in economic growth.
Tim PALLAS (Werribee – Treasurer, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Economic Growth) (14:31): I am happy – in fact I am ecstatic, I am euphoric – to update the house on how the Allan Labor government is investing in Victorian families by growing our economic prosperity and creating the jobs of the future. That is right, we are investing in Victorians while those opposite are investing in their defamation lawyers’ Ferraris.
Victoria continues to be a star on the global stage. In the 2022–23 financial year our government secured foreign direct investment generating over 2500 jobs, $332 million in wages and $625 million in innovation expenditure. Excitingly, since 2003 Victoria now has more startups than our friends in New South Wales, with 3562 – not in per capita terms, in absolute terms. Think about that: since LaunchVic was established in 2016 the value of Victoria’s entire startup ecosystem has increased almost eighteenfold, from $5.8 billion to its current valuation of $103 billion. This is wealth and prosperity writ large. This is Victorians demonstrating to the world exactly how innovative and entrepreneurial we are.
The Allan government is continuing to assist Victorian businesses to trade in global markets. In 2022–23 we supported 8000 firms to achieve $704 million in export sales. Deloitte Access Economics recently forecast that Victoria would, to nobody’s surprise, over the next five years lead the nation in economic growth.