Our March 2025 Newsletter
- CVC
- Mar 28
- 4 min read
Updated: Mar 31
Call us today on 03 5489 6400
to discuss your certification needs
or visit www.cvcertification.com.au
March 2025
Several significant developments have emerged in Australia's compliance and auditing landscape including new initiatives, updates to standards and work programs.
The Australian Federal Budget
The Australian Federal Budget 2025 introduces several measures aimed at supporting small businesses:
Energy Bill Relief: The government is extending energy bill relief until December 31, 2025. Approximately one million eligible small businesses will receive up to $150 in rebates directly off their bills. Over the last three budgets, this initiative has saved small businesses up to $800 on their energy expenses. Budget 2025-26+2Budget 2025-26+2business.gov.au+2
Energy Efficiency Grants: A total of $56.7 million has been allocated for grants of up to $25,000, assisting over 2,400 small and medium businesses in funding energy upgrades, such as replacing inefficient appliances and improving heating systems. Small Business Development Corporation
National Small Business Strategy: The government has developed this strategy in collaboration with states and territories to enhance the operating environment for small businesses. Key focuses include easing business pressures, supporting growth, and leveling the playing field. Budget 2025-26
Support for Mental Health and Financial Wellbeing: Continued funding is provided for programs like NewAccess for Small Business Owners and the Small Business Debt Helpline, offering mental health and financial counseling services. Budget 2025-26+1NSW Small Business Commissioner+1
Mentoring for First Nations Businesswomen: An allocation of $3.4 million over three years will establish a place-based business coaching and mentoring program for First Nations businesswomen and entrepreneurs. NSW Small Business Commissioner
Despite these initiatives, some small business leaders have expressed that the budget falls short of expectations, citing persistent economic pressures and rising costs. Inside Retail Australia
Overall, the 2025 Federal Budget provides targeted support to alleviate financial pressures and promote growth within the small business sector.
News
Victoria the place to be for renewable energy investment
Victoria is leading renewable energy investment, committing $2.8 billion in 2024. With a strong economy, skilled workforce, and clear net-zero targets, the state offers major opportunities in solar, wind, hydrogen, and more. Investors are
encouraged to join its growing clean energy sector. For local inquiries, contact the Business & Industry Engagement team at BIE@deeca.vic.gov.au. Learn more>>
Events
Unlock opportunities in Victorias booking BESS Sector!
Battery Energy Storage System Networking Event 2025
In partnership with the University of Melbourne’s Faculty of Engineering and Information Technology this premier event connects industry leaders, innovators, and key government representatives shaping Victoria’s renewable energy future.
Join ICN Victoria at the Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) Networking Event on Thursday, 3 April 2025
Melbourne Business School, Carlton.
Collaborate & Connect: BENDIGO!
Ready to elevate your online presence and connect with like-minded business women? Join us for COLLABORATE & CONNECT - the ultimate social media day out event!
Get ready to collaborate with industry experts, Learn from the best in the business and transform your online brand presence.
This action-packed day includes networking opportunities, delicious food, and plenty of actionable advice to help you grow your small business in the digital world. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable event! Limited tickets are on sale now.
Tuesday, May 20 · 9:30am - 2:30pm AEST
Maiden Gully, Bendigo, VIC
Accelerate Leadership Excellence: The Power of Shifting Behaviors
Join an Exclusive Webinar with Preetie Boler to embrace a new leadership standard for the modern workplace.
As a leader, you’re navigating a workplace that’s more complex than ever - hybrid teams, shifting expectations, and constant change.
Let’s change the standard. Let’s elevate leadership.
Sat, 5 Apr 2025 12:30 PM - 2:00 PM AEDT
Online
Commerce Ballarat Partner with AI Group CEO for Informative Lunch
Australian Industry Group CEO Innes Willox will be joining us in Ballarat to share his insights on industry challenges and workforce issues. Come along to mine the knowledge of a champion of Australian business.
AI Group are an incredibly important feature in the business landscape. They are a consentient and impassioned advocate for industry, and we feel incredibly privileged to partner with them on this event.
Wed, 16 Apr 2025 12:00 PM - 2:30 PM AEST North Ballarat Sports Club
725 Creswick Road Wendouree, VIC 3350
Staying up-to-date
Review of the engineered stone ban – public consultation NOW OPEN
Safe Work Australia is seeking feedback on the operation of the engineered stone ban which came into effect on 1 July 2024 to help protect workers from exposure to respirable crystalline silica. Public consultation is now open until 11.59 pm (AEDT) on Monday 31 March 2025.
Please visit Safe Work Australia’s Consultation Hub to have your say.
You can respond through the online questionnaire, upload a submission, or both.
The consultation process will inform Safe Work Australia’s review of the engineered stone ban that will be provided to WHS ministers for their consideration.
For more information about the engineered stone ban, please visit Safe Work Australia’s engineered stone ban website or contact your state or territory WHS regulator.
Opportunities
Management of psychosocial hazards and risks
Citation group - 1300 484 515
Businesses in Australia are legally obligated to manage not only the physical risks but also the psychological risks in the workplace. The law doesn’t discriminate between a hazard you cannot see and a hazard you can feel.
Managing psychological risks isn’t just a matter of compliance with the Model WHS Act; it’s about fostering a healthy, productive workplace where your team feels supported, engaged, and empowered to thrive. Ignoring these hazards could lead to higher absenteeism, decreased morale, and even costly legal issues.
That’s why the management of psychosocial hazards and risks is essential, not optional.
Consultations
Engage Victoria operates consultations with WorkSafe on legislative and guidance projects. To find out more about Engage Victoria consultations, click here >>
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