The Allan Labor Government is backing growth and innovation in Victoria's automotive sector, with Australia's largest automotive re-manufacturing company opening a new, state-of-the-art facility in Melbourne's south-east.
Minister for Industry and Advanced Manufacturing Colin Brooks today opened Walkinshaw Group's new $114 million headquarters and expanded manufacturing facility in Dandenong South, boosting capabilities and confidence in Victoria's world-class automotive supply chain, and creating 155 new local jobs.
Walkinshaw Group has grown to become Australia's largest automotive re-manufacturing company, specialising in vehicle enhancements and left-hand-drive to right-hand-drive conversions for global brands including General Motors, Toyota, Volkswagen and Isuzu.
The 155 new jobs created at the company's new facility are across production, engineering and administration - delivering a major boost to local employment and economic growth.
The 100,000-square-metre site - the equivalent of five MCGs and one of the largest manufacturing facilities in the country - brings together operations from three existing sites and can accommodate up to 1,500 employees. Walkinshaw will manufacture more than 10,000 vehicles a year for the Australian market.
The new site includes Australia's most advanced automotive engineering centre and more than four production lines and features a renewable solar energy system to support future projects.
Victoria is home to several renowned automotive manufacturers, including ARB, Premcar and APV, and the state's broader automotive industry - employing more than 50,000 Victorians.
The Labor Government continues to back the manufacturing sector through the recently launched Victorian Industry Policy and the new $150 million Victorian Investment Fund, helping businesses expand, innovate and create skilled jobs across the state.
As stated by Minister for Industry and Advanced Manufacturing Colin Brooks
"Victoria is Australia's leading advanced manufacturing state, and this state-of-the-art facility is a testament to the strength and resilience of our automotive industry."
As stated by Member for Carrum Sonya Kilkenny
"This new facility will create hundreds of local jobs and strengthen Victoria's reputation as the hub for advanced automotive manufacturing."
As stated by Member for Dandenong Gabrielle Williams
"This investment is a huge win for Dandenong - it means more secure local jobs, more innovation, and even greater confidence in the south-east as the engine room of Victorian manufacturing."
As stated by Walkinshaw Group CEO Ryan Walkinshaw
"We truly believe in the strength of Australian manufacturing and engineering, especially here in Victoria, and this should show everyone how committed we are for the long term."
