The South Australian Business Chamber Chief Executive Andrew Kay says it was vital for the team to continue as planned with the Riverland Strength and Success workshop last Wednesday.
“We wanted to ensure we directly supported local businesses with accommodation, food etc, but we also wanted to bring them together to hear first-hand about the issues they are facing and find out how we can help.
“We delivered a range of presentations on the day, including workplace wellbeing, and marketing. Those in the room heard about the support available from NBN and Vonex to ensure businesses are digitally connected. Rural Business Support also shared current funding opportunities, and MAS National highlighted its network of apprentices and trainees.
“A significant part of the day was listening. We need to understand the concerns of Riverland businesses to know what to fight for. This might be at the local, state or federal level with legislative amendments, policy reviews, or government fees and charges.
“I asked each of the business operators there to write down the one thing that the South Australian Business Chamber as the SA Chamber of Commerce could do for them right now, in 3 months or 12 months. We have taken those suggestions away and will use them to inform our actions.
“Themes came out around the need for specific types of training, and we will explore these as we develop our regional strategy. There were also opportunities to promote our existing support in industrial relations, work health and safety, contracts and modern awards. We have a team of experts who can directly answer questions and offer advice to businesses. I encourage owners and operators to call us to find out how we can help.”
The South Australian Business Chamber can be contacted via phone at 8300 0000.
