Wednesday, 24 January, 2018

The world’s largest exporter of dairy products, Fonterra, has shown its confidence in doing business in Gippsland with a multi-million-dollar investment in manufacturing plant upgrades.

Harriet Shing, Member for Eastern Victoria Region said the investment included a $7 million expansion at Fonterra’s Darnum nutritionals plant in Gippsland.

Today’s investment will create an additional 500 million litres of processing capacity, allowing Victorian dairy farmers to grow their production and ensuring all farmers have a home for their milk.

Along with creating ongoing jobs once the sites are expanded, more jobs will be created during the construction phase, emphasising that regional Victoria is a great place to do business.

Victoria is Australia’s home of manufacturing – a diverse industry that provides jobs, high-quality exports and substantial economic growth.

Food and beverage manufacturing is thriving, with employment steadily increasing over recent years.

Quotes attributable to Member for Eastern Victoria Region, Harriet Shing:

“This is a huge vote of confidence in our Gippsland dairy industry from Fonterra, a world leader in Australia’s $2 billion consumer cheese industry.”

“We know local farmers have had some tough times but today’s announcement is a win for them and our local community as a whole.”

Quote attributable to Minister for Industry and Employment Ben Carroll:

“Victoria is Australia’s jobs and manufacturing powerhouse, and this investment cements that reputation.”