Wanneroo Business Association delves into Perth’s future opportunities for business

Last week, the Wanneroo Business Association (WBA) had the privilege of attending the State of the Future Lunch at Crown Perth. This event offered a unique opportunity for us to connect and engage with industry leaders while delving into insightful discussions about Perth’s future trajectory and its opportunities for business.

Insights from Minister Sue Ellery MLC

Minister Sue Ellery MLC delivered an opening address, shedding light on key issues and initiatives shaping the future of business in Western Australia:

• Cost of Living: The impact of rising costs of living, higher interest rates, and supply chain issues on businesses and households alike.
• Government Initiatives: Updates on various government initiatives, including the Power Subsidy and Rental Relief Scheme, aimed at providing financial support to businesses and individuals facing economic challenges.
• Skilled Workforce: The importance of a skilled workforce and the government’s investments in training, highlighted by initiatives such as fee-free training and significant enrolments in training programs.
• Infrastructure Development: Announcement of WA Pipeline of Works, an interactive dashboard which provides visibility and certainty for the construction industry.
• Healthcare: Notable increases in the annual health budget and initiatives focused on attraction and retention in regional WA health services.
• Procurement: Efforts to improve procurement policies to support local business and improve gender equity.
• Workplace Safety and Gender Equality: Prioritisation of workplace safety initiatives to combat workplace turnover due to sexual harassment (for example, the MARS Program), and the integration of gender equity clauses into awarded contracts to promote gender equality.
• Innovation and Digitisation: Efforts to enhance services through digitisation, including updates to the Service WA app, aimed at improving accessibility and efficiency.

Navigating Challenges with Innovation

A panel of leaders from the tourism, agriculture, property and cyber sectors provided an enlightening discussion about how Perth will mature in the coming years. In the face of challenges such as the need for skilled staff and the digitalisation of businesses, the consensus was clear: innovation is key. By embracing digitalisation and investing in workforce development, businesses can adapt and thrive in an ever-evolving landscape.

The panel included Sarah Bassett, Head of Software at Amazon Web Services; Wayne Crofts, Chief Executive at Craig Mostyn Group; Dr Marcus Tan, Founder of Healthengine and Chair of Spacecubed; and Vanessa Torres, Chief Technical Officer at South32.

Moving Forward Together

Wanneroo Business Association remains committed to supporting local businesses in navigating these changes and seizing opportunities for growth. By fostering collaboration, innovation, and resilience, we can collectively shape a prosperous future for our community.

Stay tuned for more updates and initiatives aimed at empowering businesses in the Wanneroo region.

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Hear more from the Minister at Wanneroo Business Association’s February Business Breakfast on responding to common business scams.