Commerce Ballarat

Committee for Ballarat's Annual Economic Update: Beyond the Budget
2025-08-26 12:30 - 14:00 (Australia/Melbourne) | The Grand, 203 Dana St, Ballarat Central
Exclusive insights and predictions from Bendigo Bank’s Chief Economist, David Robertson
Step beyond the headlines and into a data-rich economic forecast designed for business decision-makers.
Join Bendigo Bank’s Chief Economist and Head of Economic and Market Research, David Robertson, as he provides expert analysis of the current economic landscape — and what lies ahead. This insightful session will unpack:

The key takeaways from the State and Federal budgets
Global economic trends and how they influence our region
Forecasts for interest rates, inflation, employment and investment
What local businesses should expect — and prepare for — in the year ahead

Whether you’re in business, government or community leadership, this briefing will give you the clarity and context you need to make smarter strategic decisions in 2025 and beyond.
Tickets include a light lunch.

Tender Together: Winning Local Work as a Business Community
2025-08-26 09:00 - 11:00
Many businesses miss out on tenders, not because they can’t do the work, but because they’re unsure where to start. Whether it’s cleaning contracts, road works, admin support, or joint ventures, these jobs are open to businesses of all sizes and sectors.
At this session, you’ll hear from procurement insiders, successful suppliers, and support experts about what really matters in a winning bid. Plus, we’re launching the Tender Toolkit, a new, practical resource packed with checklists, templates, and tools to help you get tender-ready.
If you’ve applied once and given up, or never tried at all, this is your chance to re-enter the game with the right support behind you.
Supported by the City of Ballarat

#BallBEA Gala Night
2025-08-21 18:00 - 23:00 | Mercure Ballarat, 613 Main Road, Golden Point, Victoria, 3350, Australia
Join us for a night of glitz and glamour to celebrate the Ballarat business community in style!

The countdown is on for Ballarat’s biggest business party of the year, where the winners of the Federation University Commerce Ballarat Business Excellence Awards will be announced!

This isn’t another boring business dinner, it’s the ultimate networking opportunity and a night of unforgettable fun.

Slip into your best attire, grab your partners, friends, and colleagues, and prepare for a fantastic evening full of dancing, mingling, and celebrating our incredible local business community.

Ticket price includes: all-inclusive drinks and food during the Gala Dinner, entertainment and access to the onsite afterparty.

Why not bring the team and book a table of 10!

Creating Financial Freedom in Your Business - Presented by Progress Accounting
2025-08-20 12:00 - 13:00
An interactive seminar covering the topic of “Creating Financial Freedom in Your Business”. This will cover practical ways business owners can make changes to improve the financial position of their business, including practical tips to improve their cash conversion cycle (timing from ordering stock/materials to collecting the cash).
Light lunch is provided.

Ballarat's Workplace Hero Lunch - Presented by Ballarat Business Women's Network
2025-08-19 08:00 - 17:00
🌟 Ballarat’s Workplace Heroes Lunch 🌟
Hosted by Ballarat Courier 40 Under 40 Leaders, Bec Ware & Justin Thompson.
In partnership with Ballarat Business Women & Mr Perfect.

📅 Tuesday 19th August | 🕧 12:30–2:30PM | 📍 Hydrant Bar & Café | 🎟 $40.00
Let’s celebrate the everyday legends going above and beyond in our workplaces! Join us for an inspiring lunch that recognises Ballarat’s unsung heroes – those team members who make a difference without expecting a spotlight.

🎤 Special Guest: Carolynne Smith, CEO of Healio Care
Be inspired as Carolynne shares her leadership journey and how she empowers her team to thrive through trust, purpose, and heart-led action.
This feel-good event is more than just a lunch. It’s:
✨ A celebration of local champions
✨ A showcase of Hydrant Bar’s vibrant new chapter
✨ A chance to connect with two purpose-driven networks:
💼 Ballarat Business Women – empowering local women both professionally and personally
🔥 Mr Perfect – connecting men through honest conversations & BBQs

Bring your workplace hero, connect with like-minded leaders, and walk away full – heart, belly and soul.

Attractions Roundtable - Presented by Tourism Midwest Victoria
2025-08-18 08:00 - 17:00
Cost: Free
Tourism Midwest Victoria’s attractions roundtable is a chance for you to network with other attraction operators, share challenges, successes, and explore upcoming opportunities for business growth and development.
We’ll deep dive into topics relevant to the attractions sector, hear from industry experts, and share updates from our team at Tourism Midwest Victoria.
If you have any questions or require further information, please reach out to Tourism Midwest Victoria at hello@tourismmidwest.com.au

Industry Tour at Kilderkin Distillery
2025-08-14 15:00 - 16:00
Enjoy an exclusive and informative industry tour of Kilderkin Distillery, including the production area where the globally awarded Larrikin gins and Goldfields Single Malt Whisky are crafted.
Enjoy sample tastings drawn from different stages during production, followed by samples of the final gin, liqueur and whisky products. At the conclusion all participants are welcome to stay and soak up the warm, welcoming atmosphere of Kilderkin Distillery’s bar, housed in a refurbished warehouse. Drinks and light meals available at bar prices.

The Risk Reset - Presented by eManaged
2025-08-14 08:00 - 17:00
In a world where cyber threats evolve faster than ever, it’s time to pause, reassess, and reset how we think about risk.
Join The Risk Reset, a powerful and practical session designed to help businesses understand their current risk posture and prepare for what’s next.
They’re proud to welcome Claire Richards from KPMG, who will present on the current risk landscape for Ballarat and the emerging threats businesses need to take seriously in 2025 and beyond.
Also joining them is Nick Bruyn and Ben Wilkinson from eManaged, who will speak on the real impact of a cyber breach — from the stress and reputational fear to the mental toll it takes on decision-makers. Nick and Ben will share how transparency, support, and partnering with the right Managed Service Provider (MSP) made all the difference in recovering and building back stronger.
This session isn’t just about what can go wrong — it’s about what businesses can do right now to put safety nets in place, strengthen resilience, and learn from others who’ve faced the worst.
We hope you’ll walk away with fresh perspective, renewed focus, and practical next steps.

Ballarat Tradie Network: How to Get Paid on Time (Cancelled)
2025-08-13 16:00 - 18:00
This is an opportunity to kick back and relax with your peers and a drink in hand. At the event, participate in a live stream webinar to hear practical guidance from the Victorian Small Business Commissioner Lynda McAlary-Smith on how you can give yourself the best chance possible of being paid on time for your services.
It’s a chance to connect with other workers in your sector, as well capitalise on a delicious selection of free drinks and free food!

Industry Tour: Ferndale Foods
2025-08-13 08:00 - 17:00
Take an exclusive look inside three of Ballarat’s premier production facilities! Experience a behind-the-scenes factory tour and discover how your favourite mints, marshmallows, and snack bars are made. Meet the passionate local team, learn about our proud 30-year history, and see firsthand the innovation and care behind every product. A rare opportunity to experience the magic of local manufacturing up close — spots are limited, so don’t miss out!
Commerce Ballarat Members ONLY

This event is part of B31 August Business Festival.

Drug and Alcohol Testing Course
2025-08-12 09:00 - 15:30
Want to become a drug and alcohol tester at your workplace? Join us for our nationally accredited HLTPAT005 Collect specimens for drugs of abuse testing course!
First Aid Training Group’s Nationally Accredited Drug & Alcohol Screening Officer training course (HLTPAT005 – Collect specimens for drugs of abuse testing) has been developed to address new legislative requirements for drug & alcohol testing. It follows Australian Standards AS/NZS 4308:2008 (Urine Collection), AS/NZ 4760:2019 (Oral fluid collections), and AS 3547:2019 (Breath Alcohol).
– Covers urine, oral and breath testing.
– Nationally accredited course.
– Hands-on practical training.
– On completion, all participants are certified as drug and alcohol testers.
– The course covers the entire chain of custody process.
– We provide all testing kits and resources.

Accommodation Roundtable - Presented by Tourism Midwest Victoria
2025-08-12 08:00 - 17:00
Tourism Midwest Victoria’s accommodation roundtable is a chance for accommodation operators and owners to connect, learn, and collaborate.
Each quarter, deep dive into topics relevant to the accommodation industry, as well as unpack current challenges and new opportunities for business development and growth.
If you have any questions or require further information, please reach out to Tourism Midwest Victoria at hello@tourismmidwest.com.au

Business Events Roundtable - Presented by Tourism Midwest Victoria
2025-08-11 08:00 - 17:00
These roundtables are a chance for current and future tourism and hospitality businesses to speak with Tourism Midwest Victoria and various experts. Take a deep dive into topics relevant to each sector: from challenges to opportunities for collaboration, development and growth. You’ll also be able to network with like-minded business event venues and management.

If you have any questions or require further information, please reach out to Tourism Midwest Victoria at hello@tourismmidwest.com.au

Mindshop Excellence Program - Presentation of Certificates
2025-08-08 08:00 - 17:00
Presented by Commerce Ballarat in partnership with Mindshop Excellence as part of B31 Ballarat Business Festival

Local industry, teachers, parents, friends and family are invited to witness the amazing solutions designed by the participating secondary school students.

Gen-AI in Agriculture: Practical Solutions for Everyday Tasks - Presented by Australian Regional AI Network
2025-08-07 08:00 - 17:00
Simple tools to reduce admin, improve planning, and support decisions

Discover how Gen AI can save you time, cut admin and support smarter decisions on the farm. In this hands-on one-hour workshop, the Australian Regional AI Network (ARAIN) will demonstrate real AI tools tailored for agriculture, helping with tasks like planning, reporting, and communications. You will hear practical case studies, receive prompting guides, and leave with ready to use tools. Whether you are in the field or the office, this session is designed to make AI work for your day-to-day farm operations.Discover how to:• 🔍 Sharpen your strategy – Turn paddock, weather, and market data into clear, actionable farm management plans in minutes.• ✍️ Streamline your operations – Generate crop reports, grant applications, and customer communications faster—and stay consistent.• 💬 Get better answers – Use proven prompting frameworks to get consistent, accurate outputs from tools like ChatGPT for tasks like equipment decisions or seasonal planning.• ✅ Stay safe and compliant – Learn best practices for responsible, risk-aware AI use in farm data and business operations.
What to Expect
• 🛠️ Live, step-by-step demos of AI tools solving real agri-business challenges• 📚 Case studies from successful farm and agribusiness AI applications• ❓ Interactive Q&A with ARAIN experts• 📄 Access to our micro-learning site for prompting guides, frameworks, and risk-mitigation tips
Featured Speakers
Experts from the Australian Regional AI Network (ARAIN) will share real-world insights on how AI is helping Australian farmers and agribusinesses save time, improve productivity, and build resilience.
About ARAIN
The Australian Regional AI Network (ARAIN) is a government-funded initiative backed by the Department of Industry, Science, and Resources. We support regional Australian industries, including agriculture, by delivering hands-on AI education and tools to boost competitiveness and innovation, ensuring no farm is left behind in the digital transformation.

NextGen Collective: Leadership, The Mindset.
2025-08-07 08:00
Join us for the latest edition of NextGen Collective Development: Leadership, The Mindset.
In this session, we’ll explore how understanding your unique leadership style through the DiSC framework can unlock more effective, confident, and empathetic leadership.
In this fun and interactive session, you’ll gain insight into how you naturally lead, communicate, and collaborate — and how to flex your style to better connect with others. Because better leadership starts with knowing yourself.
This session will not only contain invaluable advice, but also a spooky cocktail in one of the most unique venues in town – The Crypt. You’ll be treated to light grazing and a couple of complimentary beverages, whilst enjoying haunting ambience and some casual networking. Drinks and vital career advice – what else can you ask for on a Thursday afternoon?

This event is part of B31 August Business Festival

Getting Paid on Time - Presented by Small Business Commissioner
2025-08-06 08:00 - 17:00 | Commerce Ballarat, 119 Lydiard Street North, Ballarat Central, Victoria, 3350, Australia
Cash flow is a key concern for small business owners. Join this webinar to hear practical guidance on how you can give yourself the best chance possible of being paid on time for your goods and services.
Victorian Small Business Commissioner Lynda McAlary-Smith will provide tips on everything from setting up contracts and invoices to following-up outstanding payments, and where you can get assistance in resolving a payment dispute.

Industry Chat: Growers, Producers and Farming Industry
2025-08-05 09:00 - 10:00
Join us for an insightful gathering featuring Biznet speaker David Jochinke, tailored specifically to growers, producers, and anyone involved in agribusiness in our region. Limited places, so don’t miss out on this exclusive opportunity.

Stepping up into Leadership - Presented by BGT Jobs + Training
2025-08-05 08:00 - 2025-08-19 17:00
This course supports individuals transitioning into leadership roles or seeking to grow their leadership capabilities. It focuses on developing practical skills in communication, decision-making, delegation, and team motivation. Participants will explore what makes an effective leader and how to manage challenges with confidence and professionalism. Whether you’re stepping into a supervisory role or preparing for leadership opportunities, this course provides a solid foundation for leading with purpose and impact.
Purchase One-Day Course Tickets here
Purchase Two-Dy Course Tickets here

August Biznet Breakfast - B31 Launch!
2025-08-05 07:00 - 09:00 | RACV Goldfields, 1500 Midland Hwy, Creswick, Victoria, 3363, Australia
Join us on 5th August to launch the B31 August Business Festival Program and hear from David Jochinke, affectionately known as ‘DJ’ who is a third-generation dryland mixed farmer based in Murra Warra, in Victoria’s Wimmera region.
DJ is the President of the National Farmers’ Federation and on the board of Grampians Wimmera Mallee Water and chairs Grampians Wimmera Mallee Tourism. He also finds the time to contribute to his local community by taking part in many committees.
Biznet Breakfasts are held on the first Tuesday of every month and provide attendees with the opportunity to hear from a diverse range of speakers. These events are attended by industry across all sectors and is a great opportunity to network.

Leadership Development Session: Elevate - Presented by Committee for Ballarat
2025-08-05 - 2025-08-06 | Hotel Bellinzona, 77 Main Road, Hepburn Springs, Victoria, 3461, Australia
This all-inclusive cost provides participants with two full days of engaging leadership content, all catering, including a three-course dinner, and overnight accommodation.
Are you looking to collaborate with regional leaders who are dedicated to making a positive impact in our region?
The Elevate Program is designed for leaders who are looking for an opportunity to immerse themselves in the principles of
community leadership. This immersive, retreat-style, professional development opportunity allows participants to step outside the day-to-day pressures of their current position and create space to think big, connect with purpose and elevate their leadership, featuring special guest Christine Nixon AO, APM.
With a limited number of just 20 places, the Elevate program offers a unique opportunity to recharge your regional leadership connection.

Customer Service Training - Presented by BGT Jobs + Training
2025-08-04 09:00 - 2025-08-18 16:00
Delivering excellent customer service is essential in any industry. This practical course explores key customer service principles, including communication, problem-solving, handling complaints, and creating positive experiences. Participants will build confidence and learn strategies to manage customer interactions professionally and effectively. Ideal for those working in front-line roles or looking to refresh their skills, this course supports the development of strong, customer-focused service that builds trust and satisfaction.

Ballarat's Best Pie 2025: Awards Ceremony - Presented by Tourism Midwest Victoria
2025-08-02 15:00 - 16:00
Cost: Free
The 2025 Ballarat’s Best Pie Awards will be held on Saturday 2 August at Itinerant Spirits from 3pm.
Renowned cook, author and television presenter Julia Busuttil Nishimura will host this special event.
Each category winner will be awarded a one-off hand-painted pie dish crafted by Ballarat’s ceramics queen Shelby Sherritt.
Meanwhile, the People’s Choice Pie will be determined by a public vote running from 1-31 August, with the winner announced in early September.

Next Level Growth Program - Presented by City of Ballarat (Applications CLOSED)
2025-07-30 08:00 - 2025-09-17 17:00
APPLICATIONS NOW CLOSED
In 8-weeks of targeted business education, coaching and mentoring you will develop the most effective growth plan to help you take your business to the next level.
This impactful program is being delivered by the award nominated team at 25eight with ten years experience in getting economic results for the small and medium business they work with. With a unique approach and proven methodology, you’ll develop an effective growth plan and gain the knowledge, skills and confidence to action it.
For more details about the program including the format, eligibility, selection criteria and terms and conditions, please download the Program Brochure
Whilst the program is flexible and delivered mostly online, by applying you agree to attend commit 2 hours per week to working on the program and to attend each of the Group Sessions scheduled at:

Welcome session (in-person in City of Ballarat, location TBC) -July 30th 12pm – 2pm

Session 2 – August 13th 12pm – 1pm

Session 3 – August 27th 12pm – 1pm

Session 4 – September 17th 12pm – 1pm

You get out, what you put in, as the saying goes and so those committed to being supported to grow their business and completing all aspects of the program will benefit the most.

Ballarat Jobs & Training Expo
2025-07-25 08:00 - 17:00
Cost: FREE
The 2025 Ballarat Jobs & Training Expo will be on Friday 25th July, at the Goods Shed. 10:00am – 4:30pm
The Ballarat Jobs & Training Expo is a careers, training and skills Expo that hosts over 100 organisations and employers.
Industries represented include training and employment pathway opportunities within Ballarat and surrounding areas. All designed to support and engage our community.
The Expo is a great chance for attendees to talk to professionals in industries of interest, attend interactive workshops, team building, networking activities, forums and seminars.

Baby and Child First Aid Training Course
2025-07-22 08:00 - 17:00 | First Aid Training Group, 3/311 Gilles St N, Wendouree, VIC, 3355, Australia
Join us for our Baby & Child First Aid Course – one night only, Tuesday July 29th!
First Aid Training Group’s baby and child first aid course is perfect for expecting or current parents, grandparents and carers. Our course will empower you with life-saving first aid skills and knowledge to ensure that you have the confidence to help your little one/s when in need. In just 90 minutes, you’ll learn the essentials and walk away feeling more confident if the unexpected happens.
Our comprehensive course covers:
Infant and child CPR
Allergies and anaphylaxis
Respiratory distress
Choking
Common illnesses and health issues
And more!
All participants will receive a non-accredited certificate and goodie bag upon completion.

Youth Mental Health First Aid - 2 Day Course
2025-07-18 08:00 - 17:00
Cost: 2 Day Course, $200 per person
The Youth Mental Health First Aid course trains participants to provide initial support to a young person (aged 12-18) who may be experiencing a mental health problem or mental health crisis, until professional help is received, or the crisis resolves.
Course participants learn about the signs and symptoms of common mental health problems in adolescents, how to recognise and respond to an emerging or worsening mental health problem, and the treatments and supports available.

Intervene early
Offer support
Respond in a crisis
Reduce stigma

Held over 2 Days on Friday 18th July & Friday 25th July.
Ready to enrol or like to know more? Contact our team on training@bgt.org.au
We are also able to offer group bookings. Contact us to find out more.

The Executive Roundtable
2025-07-17 08:00 - 17:00
Discover a unique opportunity to connect, learn, and grow with like-minded executive leaders in your community of executives who share insights, strategies and experiences to grow together
No networking, just real conversations. We are not a network group – we a re a community
Peer learning. Learn from the challenges and triumphs of other senior leaders, gaining actionable insights that you can apply directly to your business
We are not a network group – we are a community of executives who share insights, strategies, and experiences to grow together

All Booked Out Fest
2025-07-12 08:00 - 17:00
Cost: Free
Coven Press is excited to be hosting our first event – the first of many!
When:
Saturday 12th and Sunday 13th July 2025
9:00am – 4:00pm
Where:
Inter Club Drop-in Centre, 320 Pleasant St S, Ballarat VIC 3350
Theme:
Themes We Orbit
An exploration of the ideas, thoughts,
dreams and fantasies we can’t ignore.
Cost:
Free (after hours events may be ticketed)
All Booked Out is a book fest for readers, writers, authors and those interested in the indie publishing industry. With an author market, kids’ corner, panels, readings and a book swap on offer, All Booked Out is your haven for all things books.
Taking place in the heart of winter, All Booked Out celebrates the stories and local authors that keep our hearts warm. With the theme of ‘Themes We Orbit’ threaded through the event, authors and attendees are invited to explore the ideas, thoughts, dreams and fantasies they just can’t ignore.
Coven Press invites writers and readers alike to join them on Saturday 12th and Sunday 13th July 2025 from 9am-4pm at the Inter Club Drop In Centre to delight in all things local and literary.

Leadership Training and Network Event
2025-07-10 08:00 - 17:00
Cost: Free
On behalf of the Collaborative Evaluation and Research Centre (CERC), Federation TAFE, Federation University and the Department of Jobs, Skills, Industry and Regions (DJSIR), we are pleased to invite you to a free one-day leadership training specifically tailored for the construction and manufacturing sectors.
This fully catered event offers practical training in inclusive leadership and management, along with valuable networking opportunities.
You will gain insights and strategies to lead with inclusivity in mind, foster a positive workplace culture, and connect with peers across the industry to share experiences and build lasting professional relationships.
The objectives of the training:
• To develop an understanding of inclusive work environments
• Share experiences from senior leaders of inclusive practices
• To develop a network of emerging leaders
Benefits:
• Practical, hands-on learning with actionable takeaways
• Expert facilitators with industry experience
• Small-group coaching for deeper understanding of concepts
• Proven track record of successful leadership programs
• Opportunities for networking and creating professional relationships.
Please click on the registration link to secure your place.
We look forward to seeing you there!
