Hundreds gathered at the new ICCI Melbourne headquarters at the International Chamber House on Exhibition Street to celebrate Italy and seize innovative opportunities for business growth.

ICCI Melbourne’s members, sponsors and partners were welcomed with the best of Italian gastronomy in Australia – Arancini Art, Cannoleria, Collefrisio by Twelve Bottles, Prosecco DOC, Birra Moretti, San Pellegrino and Lavazza – before embarking on a journey of innovation and creativity.

It was ICCI Melbourne Secretary General and CEO Veronica Misciattelli who welcomed the professionals in attendance before Italy’s Consul General in Melbourne, Chiara Mauri, highlighted ICCI Melbourne’s proactive approach in giving a voice to Victoria’s business community.

“The new headquarters at the International Chamber House represents the trust and respect that the Chamber has earned through its ongoing commitment,” said Mauri.

“It’s a new step toward ever-stronger commercial relationships.

“Italian companies are renowned for their craftsmanship, high-quality products and their ability to constantly innovate – qualities that are also found in businesses operating in Australia.

“Even in Tasmania, where I had the opportunity to hold some productive meetings, there is great potential to establish closer ties with local businesses and expand opportunities in the technology, renewable energy and infrastructure sectors.”

Regarding Tasmania, ICCI Melbourne President Adrian Lo Giudice also announced the intention to incorporate the state into the annual activity plan because, “Until now, it has never been truly recognised.”

So begins a new journey for the Chamber in Victoria and Tasmania, which will see its already dynamic team grow and continue to be supported by the Consulate General of Italy in Melbourne and the Italian Embassy in Canberra.

The partnership with St Vincent’s Private Hospital was also confirmed. Last year, $40,000 was raised in a campaign to help fund the hospital’s new tower. This year, the goal is to raise $150,000 for a Mayfield clamp, a highly specialised surgical instrument used in neurosurgery.

“In February 2026, we will also host the official Chamber of Commerce conference for the Asia, Oceania, Africa and Middle East regions,” added Lo Giudice. “This will generate even more momentum for businesses looking to grow in Australia.”

Among those present at the launch event for the 2025 program were Paul Guerra, CEO of the Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and Danni Jarrett, the CEO of Global Victoria.

Jarrett emphasised that Italy’s rich cultural and historical heritage has long been intertwined with Victoria’s dynamic economy. In particular, Milan and Lombardy, through their ‘twin city’ partnership, represent the economic framework with which to continue developing a strategic relationship.

“A relationship that will continue to evolve through Milan, Melbourne’s sister city,” added Jarrett.

Secretary General Misciattelli then returned to the microphone to outline ICCI Melbourne’s new initiatives for 2025.

In addition to the return of the ‘Women in Leadership’ networking event for its third consecutive year and the annual events dedicated to members, this year’s focus will be on design and fashion, with the Chamber facilitating the famous Salone del Mobile di Milano’s appearance at the National Gallery of Victoria. This will be followed by a collaboration with La Marzocco for the Melbourne International Coffee Expo.

In partnership with the Australian Italian Lawyers Association, ICCI Melbourne will visit the University of Padua next September for a seminar on taxation and artificial intelligence.

Additionally, beyond the Week of Italian Cuisine in the World within the hospitality sector, a special event dedicated to the Italian dolce vita will take place. Plus, thanks to a major collaboration with the Italian government, the Chamber will also award special recognition to the most authentic pizzerias, gelaterias and restaurants in Victoria.

The essential partnership with Tennis Australia will also continue, as will the collaboration with Italy’s regions through the ‘Multichamber’ event scheduled for May 7 to discuss sustainability with sister Chambers.

The date for highly anticipated and popular Business Awards Gala was also announced - set for November 22. Last year, the gala welcomed around 500 guests.

“None of this would be possible without our loyal members and outstanding partners,” Misciattelli continued.

This year, ICCI Melbourne has also welcomed two new ‘travelling companions’ – the immigration agency Mariani Migration Consultants and the Italian company Leonardo, a leader in the aerospace, defence and security sectors.

“It is an honour,” added the CEO, “It will be an incredible year with international cooperation.

“We will continue to expand as time progresses; we expect great collaboration and the realisation of large-scale projects.”