Commerce Ballarat: proudly female led, run, and facilitated

COMMERCE Ballarat is the largest independent business group in Ballarat, creating a united voice for all business sectors.

Representing a variety of stakeholder and acting as a vivacious changemaker for the greater region, Commerce Ballarat is also proudly female led, run, and facilitated.

We are exceptionally lucky to be part of a wider matrix of business that is rife with inspiring women. Our organisation is passionate about pushing community-first growth for businesses and the women working within it.

We achieve this goal through a diverse range of initiatives. Each initiative has a woman at the helm, leading with tenacity and creativity.

Examples of this include our region-wide culinary festival Forage & Feast. The festival cultivates a philosophy of indulgence, rejuvenation, and connection with local production powerhouses, offering an exclusive insight into the hidden yet spirited food culture of the Central Highlands that is primarily the product of family business.

Another example is our beloved monthly networking event Biznet Breakfast, bringing together industry leaders, business newcomers, and important community figures for more than 20 years.

The theme, venue, and guest list changes every month creating a versatile initiative that offers opportunities and representation to all. Our annual b2b media campaign additionally supports local spending through advocacy for sustainable, community-driven economy.

We also take on the responsibility of nurturing, connecting, and incentivising the youth of Ballarat through the NextGen Collective.

This includes crafting expert panels, targeted development, and social events to connect young professionals, tradies, hospitality legends, and more as they find their place in the workforce and their career.

There is also of course the jewel of our calendar: The Federation University Commerce Ballarat Business Excellence Awards. This is our golden opportunity to celebrate champions of local, small businesses.

There is considerable space carved out to ensure these awards are reflective of all in business and remain completely inclusive and authentic to what the business landscape looks like – which luckily, is full of powerful women. It is our honour to celebrate all individuals that make up the wonderful tapestry that is Ballarat business.

Commerce Ballarat is a business run by women, for women in business. This has been the status quo for more than 18 years, and it will continue for decades to come.

Membership with Commerce Ballarat is a brilliant opportunity to connect, learn, and amplify your voice to the collective business community in a meaningful way. Prices begin at $200 and scale upwards dependant on staffing and business size.

Membership includes social media promotion to tens of thousands of eyes, as well as the opportunity to evolve your skills, network, and more.

We relish the opportunity to celebrate our members and watch Ballarat grow. If you’d like to learn more about Commerce Ballarat, our initiatives, or the amazing women at its heart, head to our website at commerceballarat.com.au.