History

For over 150 years VECCI has provided leadership, information, representation and networking opportunities to businesses across the State.

1851-1870 The golden age
In 1851 Victoria separated from NSW to form its own colonial government. This initiated the first formal moves to establish a Victorian chamber of commerce in Melbourne.

1871-1890 The road to Federation
Merchants dominated Victoria’s economy during its early years. By the end of the 19th century, with the improvement in communications, larger companies began to be established. Wholesalers and manufacturers bypassed merchants and undertook more service functions, and associations of manufacturers soon joined the Chambers.

1891-1910 The Commonwealth of Australia
On 1 January 1901 the Commonwealth of Australia was proclaimed. With the opening of the First Federal Parliament in Melbourne came a push for a united parliamentary voice for Australian business through the combined efforts of the Chambers of Commerce in each colony.

1911-1930 War and peace
During the First World War many Melbourne employees answered the call of duty. Those who stayed at home devoted their time to cooperating with the government in its wartime tasks. Australia's commercial strength and growing industry was used to support its soldiers with vital supplies.

1931-1950 Turbulent times
After the First World War and the Great Depression, Victoria moved from being 'the granary of Australia' into wider agriculture such as dairying and irrigation. The gross value of production of Victoria's rural industries rose from £50 million in 1938-39 to £148 million in 1948-49. It then soared to £192 million in 1949-50.

1951-1970 Correlation and cooperation
In 1951 the Melbourne Chamber entered its centennial year and continued its effective work, campaigning for the progression of Victoria's commercial interests. A very successful 'Businessman's Convention' was held in Bendigo, the theme of which was the prevailing framework of industrial legislation and its effect on a changing industrial pattern.

1971-1990 Politics and power
Political events during the 1970s changed the distribution of power within our own local and national political system. A forum on 'The New Power Game' at the Australian Chamber of Commerce Conference in Melbourne in 1978 influenced the organisation’s thinking on industrial matters. The debate changed from a discussion about cooperation and responsibility to one of power.

1990-today Planning for success
During the 1990s VECCI's objective was to provide its members with a high-quality, cost-effective service and to give business a greater voice in determining federal and state laws that govern enterprise. The Chamber became Victoria's most influential employer organisation after a merger of the Victorian Employers' Federation and the State Chamber of Commerce and Industry. As we move forward, VECCI is increasingly becoming an advocate of Business Excellence in all spheres.