Western Victorian MP, Gayle Tierney today welcomed the $6.2 billion Rudd Government new car plan in response to the Bracks Automotive Review.
“What we have today with this massive investment announcement is a path through uncertain times,” Ms Tierney said.
“There is a heavy focus on new product, new jobs and importantly, hope for workers in Geelong’s manufacturing industry.
“The Rudd government’s plan offers hope for the future. It is a significant investment in a sustainable future that will create jobs and is environmentally sound.
“After the virtual absence of any meaningful industry policy under the Howard government this is a welcome change,” Ms Tierney said.
Ms Tierney, with her twenty year involvement in Geelong manufacturing and particularly with Ford said, ‘I will make every effort to see this massive investment translate into real opportunities and real jobs for the Geelong community’.
“When Ford announced the closure of the engine plant operations both Federal and State governments committed to a feasibility study on the potential for a replacement engine located in Geelong.
“Whilst today’s announcement does not address this issue specifically, it is timely for this feasibility study to occur.
“With such a strong signal of support from the Federal government and the correct policy settings, I believe the time is right for the study to capitalise on what is a vote of confidence for the automotive industry,” Ms Tierney said.