Discover Committee for Wyndham’s September news
A Message from Our CEO, Leanne Down
Over the past month, our members united to share information, celebrate achievements, and engage in meaningful discussions about Wyndham’s opportunities and challenges. September’s events showcased the strength of our community’s connection and collaboration.
In this month’s newsletter, you’ll read about our final Business Leaders Lunch for 2025, sponsored by Pacific Werribee, which highlighted the centre’s evolution and its vital role as a regional asset.
Additionally, the State Treasurer’s Briefing with The Hon Jaclyn Symes, Victorian State Treasurer delivered in partnership with John Lister MP, provided analysis into government fiscal priorities and their impact on business and investment in our region.
We also marked the graduation of our Emerging Leaders Program, where participants presented their Give + Grow Wyndham project—a vision to connect and promote community gardens.
Thank you for your continued support. Together, we are building a stronger, thriving Wyndham.
Warm regards,
Leanne Down
Chief Executive Officer
Committee for Wyndham
12th Annual Treasurer Briefing with The Hon. Jaclyn Symes
The Committee for Wyndham hosted the Hon. Jaclyn Symes, Victorian State Treasurer, and John Lister MP, Member for Werribee, at our 12th Annual State Budget Address.
This flagship event offers the business community a direct line to the Treasurer on the State Budget and its regional implications. This year, we expanded the format beyond formal speeches to include interactive Q&A and open dialogue — allowing businesses and community members to share feedback and priorities that will help inform ongoing budget considerations.
Our Chair, Craig Kennedy, emceed the event, while CEO Leanne Down led a Q&A, giving voice to the concerns, ideas, and aspirations of local businesses - questions from the floor were also taken.
We sincerely thank Williams Landing Town Centre, developed by Cedar Woods, for generously sponsoring the Budget Lunch for the fifth consecutive year. We also acknowledge Lizzy Jacobs Photography for continued photography sponsorship, Holiday Inn Werribee for hosting us in their outstanding venue, and Carter&Ko for their professional styling.
The Committee for Wyndham remains steadfast in championing the voice of business in our region. Events like the State Treasurer’s Address are critical to driving collaboration, advocating for investment, and ensuring Wyndham’s needs remain front and centre in government decision-making.
Business Leaders Lunch
September marked the conclusion of our 2025 Business Leaders Lunch series, with the final event proudly sponsored by Pacific Werribee.
Keynote speaker Ryan Ling, General Manager of Pacific Werribee, delivered a compelling address on the centre’s evolution. He highlighted major structural upgrades, shared plans for future development, and offered candid insights into the operational complexities of managing one of Victoria’s largest regional retail assets.
Home to over 300 retailers and ranked as Australia’s 24th largest shopping centre, Pacific Werribee remains a cornerstone of Wyndham’s economy — driving growth, creating jobs, and reinforcing the region’s status as a dynamic commercial hub.
We thank Ryan and the Pacific Werribee team for their ongoing leadership and partnership. Our thanks also go to our members for contributing to a forward-focused conversation to close out the year — and to Lizzy Jacobs for capturing the day’s highlights.
Celebrating the Graduation of our Emerging Leaders Program
We proudly celebrated the graduation of our Emerging Leaders Program, capping seven months of hard work and innovation.
Participants developed Give + Grow Wyndham, a project to connect and promote community gardens, aiming to boost social ties, health, and local economies. They’ll now work to formalise the initiative for lasting impact.
Thanks to facilitator Matt Gaffney, Enindico and the community leaders who shared their insights, including Stephan Wall (Wyndham City Council), Carmel Filippone (M&C Accountants), Laurence Hutt (Williams Landing Town Centre), Brad Van Ooi (Mercy Health), Peter McKinnon (The Gordon), and Clare Abbott (Metro Trains).
Congrats to our 2025 Emerging Leaders: Heidi Puronpää, Sharon Farrugia, Amanda O'Shannessy, Michelle Tinyou, and Shelley Ward.
Special thanks to Caffeina & Co for catering the event.
Celebrating Excellence at the Wyndham Business Awards
On 12 September, Wyndham City Council held its Annual Business Awards, celebrating local business excellence. The Committee for Wyndham proudly sponsored the Excellence in Manufacturing and Transport category.
Congratulations to finalists Outwest Concrete, OYO Movers, Desi Kothi Ice Cream, and winner ArcStructural Pty Ltd.
We also recognise Committee members awarded in other categories:
- Werribee Open Range Zoo: Business of the Year & Excellence in Retail, Tourism & Hospitality
- EQ Leaders: Education & Training
These awards highlight our members’ outstanding contributions to Wyndham’s business community and Victoria’s wider economic and social landscape.
Thanks to members for their generous sponsorship towards several categories, demonstrating their support and shared commitment to business excellence in Wyndham. All Green Nursery & Garden, Williams Landing by Cedar Woods Properties, The Gordon, Victoria University, Kenstra, and Commonwealth Bank of Australia.
The Committee is calling for Expressions of Interest from members who want to join our volunteer Board ahead of the AGM. Our Board members are active volunteers deeply connected to Wyndham, shaping the region’s future. If you’re interested, please email admin@committeeforwyndham.com.au
The Committee for Wyndham invites all members to attend our Annual General Meeting in November. The AGM is a chance to reflect on our achievements, discuss future plans, and ensure members’ voices guide our advocacy and connections. Registration details and date will be shared soon.
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Mainstream Recycling Site Tour
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Welcome to Our New Members and Thank You to Our Renewing Members!
We’re excited to welcome our new members and thank those who have renewed. Your support strengthens our ability to connect businesses, and advocate for Wyndham’s growth.
What we do:
Advocate: Representing members to drive economic growth.
Connect: Creating opportunities for business collaboration.
Educate & Promote: Sharing and promoting Wyndham’s story to support sustainable growth.
Wyndham Law Courts - Community Open Day
Before the Wyndham Law Courts officially open in November 2025, Court Services Victoria are partnering with Open House Melbourne to invite the community inside for a first look at the design and features of this landmark building.
When: Saturday 11 October 2025
Time: 10am – 3pm
This free event is a unique opportunity to explore the new Wyndham Law Courts before they open their doors.
The first day of operations at the new Courts will be:
- Monday 10 November 2025 – MCV and ChCV matters
- Monday 17 November 2025 – VCAT matters
Job Opportunity - Outwest Concrete and Building Supplies
Outwest Concrete is seeking a qualified Diesel Mechanic to join their family-owned team in Sunshine North. This full-time role offers competitive pay, overtime, and hands-on work across mechanical, auto-electrical, and hydraulic systems. The ideal candidate will be trade-qualified (or have a strong mechanical background), have experience with trucks and heavy machinery, and be a collaborative team player. Applicants must be Australian residents.
Business Training
Take your business to the next level with upcoming practical workshops designed to equip you with the skills and tools to grow, innovate, and succeed. From harnessing the power of AI for marketing to improving your profitability and cashflow, these sessions provide actionable insights from industry experts that you can apply straight away.
AI for Business: Practical Tools for Marketing
Mon 20 Oct, 5.30-7.30pm
https://www.wyndham.vic.gov.au/whats-on/aiforbusinessmarketin
Improve Your Profitability and Cashflow
Wed, 19 Nov, 5.30-7.30pm
https://www.wyndham.vic.gov.au/whats-on/improve-your-profitability-and-cashflow-free-business-trainin
Running a business takes time and effort. That’s why we’ve gathered key tools and resources to help you navigate challenges, find opportunities, and stay ahead—so you can focus on what you do best.
Buying for Victoria - The go-to platform for suppliers interested in working with the Victorian Government. Find out more here.
Grant - Wyndham City Council offers a comprehensive list of grants and funding options available to you. Find out more here
Business Victoria - Access expert guidance, services, and skills to start, manage, and grow your business. Find out more here.
Wyndham City Tenders - Find and apply for current tenders here
The Committee for Wyndham is dedicated to keeping you informed about key government activities and advocacy impacting our region. We share updates from local, state, and federal representatives to highlight important initiatives shaping Wyndham’s future.
While not exhaustive, these summaries provide valuable insights—subscribe to individual updates for more details. Our goal is to keep the community connected to the growth and opportunities driving Wyndham forward.
Mayor, Cr Mia Shaw, Wyndham City Council
Supporting Business, Celebrating Success
Wyndham City’s Love Your Local campaign has been recognised on the national stage, taking out Mainstreet Australia’s award for Best Council Traditional or Digital Marketing Campaign. Launched in 2024,
Love Your Local was created to highlight the stories behind our businesses and encourage the community to shop local, dine local, and support local services.
This award is a reflection of Council’s commitment to strengthening Wyndham’s economy, creating jobs, and supporting the small businesses that form the backbone of our city. It is also a celebration of our business community – their passion, resilience, and contribution to Wyndham.
Love Your Local shows the power of collective action: when we buy local, money stays local, circulating within the community and supporting growth. With resources available online, we encourage businesses to get involved and join us in building a thriving local economy.
Mathew Hilakari, Member for Point Cook
Upgrades are beginning at Central Avenue and Point Cook Road, including removing the roundabout, adding concrete barriers, and other safety measures. Some disruptions are expected, but these changes will improve safety and reduce travel times. Community consultations will continue, with updates on Mathew’s Facebook and Instagram.
Construction is underway on the new Point Cook Community Hospital (Western Health), offering radiology, day surgery, dialysis, and public dental services to ease pressure on major hospitals.
The specialist Ngurraga School, west of Hackett’s Road, will open in 2026 with four learning neighborhoods, a multi-purpose building, food tech and performing arts facilities, playgrounds, and shaded areas. Enrolments are now open.
During school holidays, children under 16 have free entry to Werribee Open Range Zoo to explore the new 21-hectare elephant habitat, go on safari tours, and see meerkats.
Dylan Wight, Member of Tarneit
The Allan Labor Government has driven Victoria’s economy to record employment and the nation’s highest jobs growth, creating opportunities for businesses, workers, and families.
ABS data shows 32,400 new jobs in August—the strongest growth in Australia—bringing total employment to a record 3.82 million. Over the past decade, Victoria’s economy has grown faster than any other state, expanding 31% since the government took office.
Business investment has surged 53.4% in 10 years—the highest among states—and Victoria has added over 123,000 businesses since June 2020, a 19.6% increase, leading the nation.
We remain committed to fostering growth and a fair future where more Victorians can thrive.
Sarah Connolly, Member for Laverton
Sarah was thrilled this month to visit and promote the fact that The Y's Truganina South Early Learning Centre is receiving $133,000 to upgrade their indoor learning area! Such a well-run center with dedicated, caring staff who make every day enjoyable for our kids.
This project was funded through the 2024–25 Building Blocks Grants Improvement stream and focuses on adding outdoor shade sails and improving the indoor learning areas. This upgrade will increase safety and give children of all abilities new ways to socialise, develop and learn.
The project is projected to be completed in mid-2026, with planning underway.
Joanne Ryan, Federal Member for Lalor
The Albanese Labor Government remains committed to delivering the better future Australians voted for on May 3.
In Lalor, I’ve been advocating on local issues, including the sharp rise in scams in Tarneit and Werribee—among Victoria’s worst-affected areas. The Government has introduced world-leading scam protections, with further telecom consumer safeguards currently before Parliament.
We’ve also passed key measures to ease cost-of-living pressures, such as reducing student debt by 20%, capping PBS medicine costs at $25, and enshrining penalty rates into law. Additionally, early childhood education regulations have been strengthened to improve safety, access, and affordability.
As Parliament returns in October, we will continue building on these efforts to secure a better future for Wyndham.
Trung Luu, Member for Western Metropolitan Region
September has been a busy month in Melbourne’s west. I had the pleasure of visiting local schools—Homestead Senior Secondary College, Suzanne Cory High School, and Werribee Secondary College—to congratulate this year’s recipients of the Trung Luu MP School Awards Program for their academic excellence and leadership. I was proud to acknowledge their achievements in Parliament and look forward to following their continued success.
I also welcomed Opposition Leader Brad Battin to Point Cook. Together, we visited Point Cook Centrals Football Club, held a Listening Post at Point Cook Shopping Centre to hear community concerns about rising crime and service gaps, and toured Fresh Select, a local vegetable wholesaler in Werribee South.
It’s been a productive month, and I remain committed to being a strong voice for Melbourne’s west in Parliament.
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