Global voices, local impact: VCCI CEO Sally Curtain reflects on 14th World Chambers Congress

October 30, 2025

In September 2025, the Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VCCI) proudly hosted the 14th World Chambers Congress (WCC) in Melbourne, the world’s largest global business forum for chamber leaders, policymakers and industry innovators.

Co-organised by the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) and its World Chambers Federation, the successful bid to bring this prestigious event to Victoria was the result of years of collaboration between the VCCI, Melbourne Convention Bureau (MCB) and key partners across government and industry. Delegates from over 100 countries attended the 14th World Chambers Congress (14WCC), a powerful platform for sharing best practices, forging new partnerships, and driving economic prosperity through global cooperation.

Following the event’s resounding success, MCB caught up with newly appointed VCCI Chief Executive, Sally Curtain, to discuss how the Congress came to life, the legacy it leaves for Victoria’s business community, and her vision for the organisation’s future.

Image: Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry Chief Executive, Sally Curtain

How did the 14th World Chambers Congress come to life and what work did the Vic Chamber and your partners do in the lead up to the event? 

The 14th World Chambers Congress was years in the making and a fantastic example of collaboration. The Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VCCI) worked closely with Melbourne Convention Bureau (MCB) to pull together the bid: a world-class proposal that showcased Melbourne’s strengths as a global business hub - innovation, diversity, safety and connection. The bid was accompanied by letters of support from all levels of Government, including Federal Minister for Trade and Tourism of Australia, Don Farrell, the Victorian Premier at the time, Daniel Andrews, Victorian Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events, Steve Dimopolous, Victorian Minister for Small Business, Jaala Pulford and the Lord Mayor of Melbourne at the time, Sally Capp. Former VCCI Chief Executive Paul Guerra was joined by MCB CEO Julia Swanson to deliver the in-person pitch to the International Chamber of Commerce World Chambers Federation in Paris in November 2022.

What role did MCB play in facilitating a successful event?

The Melbourne Convention Bureau was instrumental from start to finish. Their expertise in attracting and delivering international business events was invaluable for our team who sought their constant and continued advice, counsel and input from formulating the bid right through to delivery of 14WCC. The “Team Victoria” is a hallmark of why our state continues to lead the world in hosting transformative global gatherings.

What was the highlight of the event for you?

The highlight for me was simply the vibe that permeated throughout the event. There was an incredible spirit of positivity and purpose, with the energy and ambition continuing throughout the three days. It was wonderful to see how delegates from such a broad range of backgrounds, cultures and perspectives could come together in such a collaborative way. It was a powerful reminder of Melbourne’s position on the global stage and of the Victorian Chamber’s ability to convene business leaders, innovators and policymakers in one conversation.

Some of my favourite sessions explored how artificial intelligence is reshaping the world of work – from future-proofing the workforce to managing risks, enhancing efficiency and unlocking new opportunities for business growth. Those conversations reflected the kind of leadership and innovations that Victoria is known for.

The warmth of the Welcome to Country, the energy in the sessions, the calibre of the speakers and the spirit of collaboration made it clear that the legacy of this congress will be felt long after that final session closed and captured everything this organisation and this state stands for.

What outcomes have you seen from the event so far and what more do you expect to come?

Already we’re seeing new international partnerships forming, trade discussions continuing and Victorian businesses exploring opportunities opened through the Congress. It positioned Melbourne and Victoria as global thought-leaders on innovation and sustainable growth - themes that will continue to shape our economy. The Congress also deepened collaboration between the Victorian Chamber and our international counterparts, and we’ll keep building on that momentum to grow exports, attract investment and expand global connections for local businesses. The legacy of the Congress is only just beginning.

What can we expect next from the Victorian Chamber, and what’s your vision for the organisation’s future?

The Congress set the tone for a new era. My vision is to harness that global energy and translate it into real outcomes for Victorian businesses through skills development, AI and digital enablement, regional growth and international trade. We’ll continue to advocate fearlessly for a competitive, confident Victoria and ensure our members have the connections and capability to thrive in a changing world. The Victorian Chamber has always been the voice of business and now we’re also the bridge to the world.