Business Voice

Building skills, rebuilding confidence: Apprenticeships in focus

In this episode of the Business Voice podcast, Victorian Chamber Chief Executive Paul Guerra is joined by Dean Luciani, CEO of Westvic Staffing Solutions and inaugural Chair of the Global Apprenticeship Network Australia. With more than a decade of experience placing over 4,000 apprentices across regional Victoria, Dean shares his powerful insights on the current skills crisis, declining apprenticeship numbers and the urgent need for reform in Australia’s vocational training system. The conversation covers the impact of the federal election, the widening youth unemployment gap, barriers facing small businesses and the cultural stigma still surrounding trades. Drawing on global models like the Swiss-German apprenticeship system, Dean offers practical solutions to rebuild Australia’s skilled workforce – starting with schools, employers and stronger government support.

The mandate, the message, and the misfires: 2025 election debrief with Stephen Conroy

The election result no one saw coming — what it means, and what’s next. In this special post-election edition of the Business Voice podcast, Victorian Chamber Chief Executive Paul Guerra is joined once again by Labor powerbroker Stephen Conroy and political strategist Sean Sammon for a candid, wide-ranging debrief on the 2025 Federal Election.  From surprise swings and strategy missteps to factional fallout, housing policy, the future of gas and energy, and the Liberal Party’s path to relevance — no stone is left unturned. Conroy offers insider reflections on Labor’s commanding win, the road ahead for government and why he believes the next Liberal Prime Minister isn’t even in Parliament yet. Sammon weighs in on grassroots sentiment, candidate selection and why the road to recovery for the opposition must start now. Whether you’re in business or politics, this episode is essential listening for anyone interested in where Australia is heading next.

Navigating political turbulence: Stephen Conroy on Trump, Dutton and Labor’s strategy

Join us for an in-depth conversation with former Labor heavyweight, Stephen Conroy, where we explore the intricacies of Australia's political landscape. From the long journey of the National Broadband Network to the current election dynamics, Conroy shares his unique insights. Discover how Trump's policies are reshaping Australia's political and economic environment and the critical importance of soft diplomacy. Learn why he believes Peter Dutton's campaign is faltering and how Labor has managed to gain an edge. This episode is packed with expert analysis, behind-the-scenes stories, and predictions that you won't want to miss.

2025 Federal Election Special: Tax, politics and the path ahead

In this first episode of our Federal Election special series, Victorian Chamber Chief Executive Paul Guerra is joined by Pitcher Partners’ Stuart Dall and York Park Group’s Sean Sammon for a deep dive into the tax system, the political landscape and what business really wants from the next federal government.  With decades of experience advising businesses and navigating complex tax policy, Stuart offers a candid and compelling look at why meaningful reform remains out of reach – and what needs to change. Sean brings expert political insight and sharp commentary on campaign dynamics, election polling and why Donald Trump might be the wildcard no one saw coming. Smart, timely and straight-talking – this is essential listening for anyone in business as the nation gets ready to head to the polls.

Alex Fevola: Vision to take Runway Room around the globe

Alex Fevola's journey into the world of makeup artistry began during her early days as a model. Working closely with makeup artists, she witnessed firsthand the transformative power of cosmetics. This early immersion ignited a passion that went beyond applying makeup; it was about the confidence and self-discovery it unlocked. Fueled by this passion, Alex founded Runway Room in 2012. Business Voice [https://www.victorianchamber.com.au/news/podcasts/business-voice] is the Victorian Chamber’s podcast for Australian business. When business does well, Australia does well.  Fevola holds visions to get Runway Room international and become a recognisable Australian brand around the world. Our series takes a broad view of the industries, issues and individuals that make Victoria and Australia tick.See omnystudio.com/listener [https://omnystudio.com/listener] for privacy information.