More components of Melbourne's new G Class trams can be built in Victoria thanks to a new partnership between Victorian-owned and based Assemco and China's biggest manufacturer of train and tram interior fittings, KN.
Today in Shanghai, Premier Jacinta Allan joined Assemco for the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding that will invest more skills and technology into Victoria's tram manufacturing sector and its supply chain.
KN - listed on the Shanghai Stock Exchange - has China's biggest market share in the manufacturing of doors, fittings and other interior components of rolling stock.
Its deal with Assemco supports the transfer of ceiling panel assembly on the new G Class trams to Victoria.
Under the agreement, Assemco will acquire the knowledge and expertise required to take over the assembling, testing and painting of the panels - building a skill base that can be applied to other tram components at home.
Croydon South-based Assemco employs 115 people and has close to 30 years' experience in rail manufacturing. Its partnership with KN will deliver new jobs now and strengthen Victoria's local supply chain in the future.
The deal was signed as part of a delegation of Victorian manufacturers led by Alstom Australia and New Zealand, which includes Copamate, New Touch Industries and Catten Industries. The delegation is supported by the Allan Labor Government.
The Government's record $1.85 billion investment to build 100 new low-floor G Class trams in Victoria - and a brand-new depot - is the biggest investment in trams in Australian history. The project is being built with at least 65 per cent local content and will support up to 1,900 Victorian jobs.
Through its China Strategy, Victoria aims to be the first port of call for Chinese business to innovate and invest - delivering jobs, skills and stability in an increasingly uncertain global economy.
As stated by Premier Jacinta Allan
"We're building 100 new trams in Victoria, and now the manufacturing superpower of the world is sharing their skills with us."
"My China Strategy means more deals like these that deliver jobs, skills and stability for Victorian industries."
"We're backing in local companies and local workers all the way."
As stated by Minister for Public and Active Transport Gabrielle Williams
"Victoria has been building trams for more than a century, and this investment in skills enhances our capacity even further as we build 100 new Victorian-made trams."
"Victoria's rolling stock industry supports thousands of skilled jobs in manufacturing and the supply chain."
As stated by Alstom's Managing Director Pascal Dupond
"We are proud to be manufacturing the G Class tram in Victoria and creating pathways for local suppliers to connect with global business and supply chain. This visit highlights the strong partnership we have with the Victorian Government and reinforces our commitment to continued investment in Victoria to develop the local supply chain."
