MGA’s Industry Breakfast 2026 explored the key issues shaping independent retail ahead of the 2026 Victorian election.
The event covered the political landscape, economic pressures on small business, AI and workplace relations, and retailer perspectives on competition, customer loyalty and adapting for the future.
Featuring:
- Heidi Murphy and Bev McArthur MP — Political Discussion
- Dr Adam Triggs — Economic Outlook
- Commissioner Leyla Yilmaz — Workplace Relations Update
- Wayne Harrison, Raelene Hopper and Geoff Dahlsen — Industry Leaders Panel
Watch the full session recordings below.
Introduction – Presented by Martin Stirling, CEO of MGA, opening the Industry Breakfast and previewing the day ahead.
Dr Adam Triggs – Economist on the cost-of-living squeeze and what it means for independent retailers.
Commissioner Yilmaz – Fair Work Commission on the AI-driven surge in workplace disputes.
Closing Remarks – Martin Stirling wraps up the morning and thanks the day’s speakers and sponsors.
Heidi Murphy & Bev McArthur MP – Heidi opens with her read on the state election, nine weeks out from polling day, before Bev McArthur joins to discuss regulation, energy costs and crime facing small business.
Independent Retailer Panel – Wayne Harrison, Raelene Hopper and Geoff Dahlsen on running independent businesses today.
Your stories help drive change.
If you or your team have experienced retail crime, aggression or unsafe behaviour in your store, we encourage you to share your experience confidentially.
Your insights help us:
- demonstrate the real impact on small and family businesses
- strengthen our advocacy to government and policymakers
- shape future initiatives and support for members
