Former Beyond Blue executive Greg Jennings has been appointed Victoria’s Small Business Commissioner, bringing experience in workplace mental health and industrial relations.
Former Beyond Blue executive Greg Jennings has been appointed Victoria’s new Small Business Commissioner, following senior roles in workplace mental health and industrial relations.
Jennings, who previously served as a director at the Fair Work Ombudsman, will serve a three-year term, replacing interim commissioner Tim Symons.
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Symons took over in March following Lynda McAlary-Smith’s appointment as Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman.
McAlary-Smith, who knows Jennings well, backed his appointment.
“I congratulate Greg on his appointment, he will be a fantastic Small Business Commissioner for Victoria’s small businesses,” McAlary-Smith told SmartCompany.
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“I look forward to working with him and his fellow state Small Business Commissioners in supporting and advocating for small businesses.”
As chief engagement officer at Beyond Blue, Jennings led workplace wellbeing initiatives, including programs supporting small business owners.
Jennings’ appointment follows a $400,000 allocation in Victoria’s 2026-27 budget for the state’s Small Business Commission to employ additional dispute resolution officers.
The funding is intended to improve small businesses’ access to low-cost dispute resolution services.
Victorian Small Business Minister Natalie Suleyman said Jennings’ experience would be valuable as he took on the role.
“The Victorian Small Business Commission plays an important role in helping small businesses avoid and resolve disputes and overcome challenges, so I am pleased to welcome Mr Jennings to lead this important work,” Suleyman said in a statement.
Suleyman also thanked Symons for his service as interim commissioner.
Jennings said he intended to continue the commission’s advocacy and dispute resolution work.
“I’m excited to take on this role, ensure their voices are heard, and lead the Victorian Small Business Commission in delivering the support, advocacy and dispute resolution services that enable small businesses to thrive,” he said.