The Western District Chamber advocates for policies and investment that strengthen local businesses, grow the regional economy, and improve the liveability and competitiveness of the Western District. Our priorities are informed by ongoing consultation with members and focus on practical outcomes across all levels of government.
Support policies that make it easier to start, operate and grow a business by:
Reducing unnecessary regulation, compliance and government charges.
Addressing rising electricity and energy costs while improving energy security.
Minimising the cumulative impact of state and federal workplace compliance requirements.
Reducing the cost pressures facing small and medium businesses.
Ensuring government policy considers the impact on business competitiveness.
Address workforce shortages and improve business capacity by:
Supporting skills development, training and up-skilling.
Expanding education and training opportunities within the region.
Encouraging policies that increase workforce participation.
Supporting workforce attraction and retention, including migration pathways where appropriate.
Improving access to childcare to support workforce participation.
Advocate for housing that supports economic growth by:
Increasing the supply of rental and owner-occupied housing.
Unlocking residential land to meet current and future demand.
Streamlining planning and development processes.
Recognising housing as essential infrastructure for workforce attraction and regional growth.
Support investment in projects and infrastructure that strengthen the region, including:
Hamilton CBD Redevelopment (all stages).
Establishment of a Hamilton Study Hub.
Western District Health Service redevelopment and modernisation.
Hamilton Justice Precinct.
Public transport, rail and freight connectivity.
Safe, reliable regional roads.
Utilities, digital connectivity and other essential infrastructure.
Promote efficient and cost-effective waste management by:
Reducing the cost burden of waste services on businesses.
Increasing recycling and resource recovery.
Supporting best-practice waste management through collaboration between business and all levels of government.
Work collaboratively with local government to support business growth through:
Meaningful consultation and stakeholder engagement.
Parking strategies that support business activity.
Delivery of the Hamilton CBD Redevelopment and Lakes Edge projects.
Business promotion, investment attraction and economic development initiatives.
Transparent and evidence-based decision-making.