President’s Message
Happy new financial year!
It’s hard to believe it’s been over a month since our conference, and the feedback continues to come in. What’s been particularly pleasing is hearing from seasoned conference-goers that this was the strongest program they’ve experienced. That speaks to the calibre of the content but, more importantly, to our collective ambition to ensure our business community has access to insights, ideas and connections that genuinely move the dial.
Since the conference, we’ve been focused on maintaining that momentum. Our Business and Brew last week, delivered in partnership with nbn co and Microsoft, brought a practical lens to the conversation, with a focus on Copilot for business and how AI can support productivity and growth.
Advocacy remains front and centre for the Chamber. A key priority for us is reducing red tape, particularly for small businesses. We know that unnecessary complexity and compliance burdens are real constraints on growth. If we’re serious about strengthening our economy, we need to create the conditions that allow small businesses not just to start, but to scale and grow into that “sweet spot” where they can employ more people, invest with confidence and drive broader economic impact.
In July, we have two important opportunities to progress this agenda. We’ll be engaging directly with Deputy Premier, the Hon. Guy Barnett, Minister for Small Business, Trade and Consumer Affairs, on the challenges facing small businesses, including the need to cut red tape, with more details below and here. We’ll also hold a separate session with Senator Jacinta Nampijinpa Price, Shadow Minister for Small Business. These are important forums for ensuring our members’ voices are heard and that real issues are firmly placed on the policy agenda.
We’re also continuing to respond to emerging issues, with planning underway for a Retail Security Forum with Tasmania Police. Looking ahead, the return of our Annual Business Excellence Awards in November is a key opportunity to celebrate the innovation, resilience and success of businesses across our region.
Encouragingly, we continue to welcome new members to the Chamber. That growth reflects the relevance of our work and the importance of a strong, collective voice for business. In that context, I’m pleased to share that the Executive has endorsed our FY27 budget, with a clear commitment to supporting our members through current cost pressures.
We’ve made the decision to hold membership rates and will continue to offer our $25 introductory membership for start-ups and micro businesses with fewer than four employees. This is a deliberate step to ensure the Chamber remains accessible and to support the pipeline of emerging businesses that will shape our region’s future.
There’s a strong sense of momentum at the moment and a clear focus on ensuring that momentum translates into meaningful outcomes for our members and the broader business community.
Thank you for your ongoing support. We look forward to connecting with you again soon.

Claire Connelly
President, Devonport Chamber of Commerce & Industry
Living City Business – Supporting Businesses to Thrive,
so Devonport Prospers.
Media Releases
The Tasmanian Business Conference Delivers Standout Second Year
Welcome to our Newest Members
Welcome to our latest members! We’re thrilled to have a diverse range of members from various sectors joining our growing network. With more than 180 businesses and individuals represented, we aim to ensure our ideas and opinions are well informed and truly reflective of the business community.


Upcoming Events

Reducing Small Business Red Tape
Removing Barriers, Accelerating Business, Strengthening Growth by Cutting Red Tape to Help Tasmanian Small Business Do Business.
This exclusive roundtable brings together our members and key partners for a candid discussion with the Deputy Premier, the Hon. Guy Barnett, Minister for Small Business, Trade and Consumer Affairs, on the priorities needed to help small businesses thrive.
Facilitated by Red Tape Reduction Coordinator Stuart Clues from the Office of the Coordinator-General, this forum aims to foster an open conversation focused on practical pathways to reduce the regulatory burden, streamline approvals and create a more enabling environment for business investment and expansion.
Participants will have the opportunity to share insights, raise challenges and contribute directly to shaping a more agile and competitive Tasmanian business community.
Once registered, ticket holders will have the opportunity to submit their questions in advance.
Cost: Tickets start from just $15 for members and $30 for non-members.
Time: 7.15 am to 8.45 am
Where: paranaple Convention Centre, Devonport
Registration includes your morning cuppa and a muffin.
RSVP: Registrations close at 5.00 pm on Monday, 20 July 2026.
Enquiries: mail@dcci.org.au
Other News

From TCCI
WR Lunchtime Lowdown Series
30-min bite-sized lunchtime sessions, Abbey, TCCI Senior Workplace Relations Consultant, will walk you through what your rights and responsibilities.
Lunchtime Lowdown: Underpayment Claims – 30 July 2026
Lunchtime Lowdown: Annual and Long Service Leave – 4 August 2026
Get Involved
Interested in Sponsoring a Breakfast Meeting in 2026?
Your Opportunity to Connect, Engage and Gain Visibility.
We’re thrilled to offer a new sponsorship opportunity that allows businesses to make a small investment and align themselves with a monthly breakfast meeting. Designed to advance your business interests and priorities, this sponsorship provides valuable exposure through newsletters, social media, complimentary tickets and recognition at the event.
It’s a fantastic way to showcase your brand, connect with industry professionals and strengthen your presence within our business community.
Interested? Contact mail@dcci.org.au for further details.
Spread the Word!
Do you have an event or announcement you’d like us to share?
Contact us for more information, mail@dcci.org.au For information on more upcoming events visit DCCI Events, What’s On Devonport and paranaple Arts Centre





