A Further Boost For Workers And Industries In Transition

Published:
Wednesday 3 May 2017

Victorian workers, manufacturers and industries in transition will receive more support to create jobs and secure a brighter future thanks to the Andrews Labor Government.

Visiting Nissan Casting Australia in Dandenong South today, Minister for Industry and Employment Wade Noonan and Member for Dandenong Gabrielle Williams spoke to workers about a $15 million cash boost in the Victorian Budget 2017/18 to support key industry transition and manufacturing programs.

The Budget includes:

  • $10 million for the Local Industry Fund for Transition (LIFT) – on top of the $33 million previously funded
  • $5 million to boost the Future Industries Manufacturing Program (FIMP), building on the $13 million announced last year.

These programs are creating new jobs and opportunities for workers, businesses and communities affected by changes in the manufacturing sector – including the closure of local car manufacturing.

Nissan Casting – a manufacturer of automotive componentry – received support from FIMP to create 14 new jobs and transition 27 roles.

The grant will help the company purchase and install new equipment. It will also assist Nissan Casting in developing the next generation Electric Vehicle powertrain inverter components and water jacket assembly for export.

That project is expected to generate an additional $39 million in export revenue over four years.

To date, FIMP has supported 25 projects from Victorian based manufacturers that are expected to create 231 new full time jobs.

The LIFT program has supported 28 projects that are expected to create 591 jobs – including 482 roles suitable for former automotive workers.

More information about industry transition programs and how to apply – visit www.business.vic.gov.au or call 13 22 15.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Industry and Employment Wade Noonan

“We are seeing real jobs and real results from our industry transition and manufacturing programs, and I’m thrilled we were able to provide additional support in the Budget.”

“The future for manufacturing in Victoria is bright – and we’ll continue to do everything we can to support new jobs and new opportunities.”

Quotes attributable to Member for Dandenong Gabrielle Williams

“Nissan Casting is a proud local supply chain company, and we’ll continue to get behind these businesses to support their future growth.”

“I encourage local manufacturing businesses in the south-east to apply for assistance to grow their businesses and create jobs.”