Western Australia's newly appointed industry leader has declared that providing reliable and affordable energy represents the single most critical factor for securing the state's economic prosperity.
New Leadership at Business Helm
Aaron Morey has officially assumed the role of Chief Executive Officer at the Chamber of Commerce and Industry WA, taking over from former leader Chris Rodwell. The transition occurred earlier this week, marking a significant leadership change for one of the state's most influential business organizations.
Morey brings substantial experience to the position, having previously served as the chamber's chief economist and strategy officer. His deep understanding of Western Australia's economic landscape positions him to advocate effectively for business interests across multiple sectors.
Energy Security as Economic Foundation
In his first public statements as CEO, Morey emphasized that energy certainty stands as the fundamental prerequisite for Western Australia's continued economic development. He stressed that without predictable, cost-effective power supplies, the state risks losing ground in attracting and retaining business investment.
The new industry boss identified several key priorities that will shape his leadership approach. Beyond energy security, he highlighted the importance of maintaining Western Australia's competitive edge in global markets, addressing workforce challenges, and ensuring regulatory frameworks support rather than hinder business growth.
Morey pointed to Western Australia's unique economic position, noting the state's significant contributions to national exports and GDP. However, he cautioned that this advantageous position cannot be taken for granted without continued focus on the fundamentals that enable business success.
Building on Past Success
The incoming CEO acknowledged the strong foundation established by his predecessor, Chris Rodwell, who led the organization through several challenging years. Rodwell's tenure saw the chamber navigate pandemic-related disruptions and advocate for business support measures during economic uncertainty.
Morey indicated he would build upon this legacy while bringing his own perspective to the role. His background in economics suggests a data-driven approach to policy advocacy, focusing on evidence-based solutions to the challenges facing Western Australian businesses.
The leadership transition comes at a crucial time for Western Australia's economy as businesses grapple with evolving market conditions, technological transformation, and changing workforce dynamics. Morey's appointment signals continuity in the chamber's commitment to representing diverse business interests across the state.
As Western Australia positions itself for future growth, the emphasis on energy certainty reflects broader concerns about infrastructure, sustainability, and economic resilience. Morey's early focus on this issue suggests it will form a central pillar of the chamber's advocacy efforts in coming months.
