Wednesday, 18 July, 2018

The Andrews Labor Government is helping manufacturers in the Latrobe Valley grow, innovate and create jobs.

Minister for Industry and Employment Ben Carroll today visited Safetech in Moe to announce the new Latrobe Valley Manufacturing Cluster – part of a $5 million state-wide initiative to create jobs and help regional manufacturers grow.

The initiative will give local manufacturers access to programs that boost productivity and competitiveness, and help them embrace innovation, adopt new skills and develop trade and supply chain opportunities.

The cluster will harness the strengths of local businesses and connect them with other manufacturing organisations. There are more than 165 manufacturing businesses in the Latrobe Valley region, employing more than 2,300 people.

It will be delivered by the Labor Government in partnership with the Australian Industry Group, and will be overseen by a committee made up of local stakeholders.

Safetech designs and manufactures materials handling equipment, dock equipment, scissor lifts, vehicle lifts, hoists, cranes & lifting devices and palletising solutions for a diverse range of industries.

The company has built and installed a custom freight hoist for the MCG water recycling plant, as well as Australia’s largest truck lifts at the Emporium shopping precinct in Melbourne.

The Labor Government has already committed over $120 million in manufacturing support, creating over 6,000 jobs and driving more than $1.6 billion in private investment across the State.

The latest figures show that Victoria’s Performance of Manufacturing Index grown for 17 consecutive months – the longest run of expansion on record.

For more information about the Regional Manufacturing Cluster, visit business.vic.gov.au.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Industry and Employment Ben Carroll   

“This manufacturing cluster will help businesses in the Latrobe Valley create jobs and boost productivity.”

“The Latrobe Valley Manufacturing Cluster will help locals address key barriers and give them the skills they need to position them for success.”

Quotes attributable to Member for Eastern Victoria Harriet Shing 

 “Safetech is a fantastic example of a local business succeeding – employing local workers and helping to boost our economy.”

“The Labor Government will always support manufacturers here in the Latrobe Valley so they can create jobs and support our local economy.”