Every industry, every community in our state

Victoria is home to incredible diversity – both in our communities, and our industries. And it’s a key part of what makes our state so strong. Whether you’re the biggest global company or the smallest of small businesses. Whether you work alongside hundreds on the factory floor or construction site, or are a sole trader.

You’re helping contribute to Victoria’s success.

Just as our economic diversity is a key strength, so is our people’s.

Our state is home to one of the most diverse populations in Australia, hailing from over 300 ancestries and speaking over 200 languages. That cultural richness fuels our creativity and collaboration – making Victoria a globally connected place to live and work.

We also acknowledge that we must achieve an inclusive economy for First Peoples in Victoria.

Our Government is committed to working alongside First Peoples to deliver reforms that respect, recognise and empower their participation in, and contribution to, Victoria’s economy – as employees and employers, consumers and suppliers, investors and investees, creators and contributors. First Peoples’ economic success is vital to growing Victoria’s economic success.

It’s why the Economic Growth Statement – and its four actions – have been developed to reach and benefit industries and communities across Victoria.

From traditional to emerging industries, from small businesses seeking to grow to international businesses seeking to invest – these initiatives will create new opportunity and drive new innovation.

Mostly, they’ll help build a diverse and inclusive economy – for all of us.

Local Jobs First

As the largest procurer of goods and services in the state, the Victorian Government is using its purchasing power to help back local businesses and create local jobs.

Through our Local Jobs First Policy(opens in a new window), we’re making sure small and medium size businesses have the opportunity to compete for both large and small government contracts.

Since 2014, Local Jobs First has set local content requirements for 349 Strategic Projects, with a combined total value of more than $175 billion and supporting more than 60,000 jobs.

We’re also helping train the next generation of workers. Since the 2016 introduction of the Major Projects Skills Guarantee – mandating that at least 10% of the work carried out on Victoria’s major projects is undertaken by apprentices, trainees or cadets – more than 13,300 Victorians have benefitted.

In line with our election commitment, we’re also strengthening the Act – with better enforcement and expanded opportunities for businesses. More announcements will be made in 2025.

From construction to manufacturing, Local Jobs First is ensuring that our investments benefit Victorian businesses and workers.

Updated 11 December 2024

Economic Growth Statement

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