The Allan Labor Government is providing key infrastructure to unlock more jobs in Portland, with the first major em-ployer about to open in the Portland North Employment Precinct.
Acting Minister for Regional Development Danny Pearson today announced that Bunnings will be the first of many businesses to call the new 10-hectare precinct home when it opens on Saturday, 14 June.
Bunnings will employ more than 50 locals at its Portland store, which adds to the 50 roles during construction of the warehouse. The new store will span 5,300 square metres and provides 120 car parking spaces for customers.
The Victorian Government also supported the construction of key road and drainage infrastructure at the Portland North Employment Precinct that will open the door to more businesses like Bunnings to set up shop in Portland.
The Portland North Employment Precinct was delivered by Glenelg Shire Council and is funded by $2.5 million from the Portland Economic Diversification Plan to strengthen and expand the local economy.
The Plan is designed to back ongoing initiatives across Glenelg Shire to stimulate the economy through new jobs and investments that support more business activity.
The government is also continuing its focus on delivering trunk infrastructure to regional Victoria as part of the Eco-nomic Growth Statement. This includes infrastructure like water supply, sewerage, roads and electricity to open the door to more industrial land across the state.
These investments are part of more than $47 billion invested in regional and rural Victoria in just over a decade.
As stated by Acting Minister for Regional Development Danny Pearson
"Thanks to the road and drainage infrastructure we've supported in Portland, businesses like Bunnings are supporting the local economy and workforce."
"Part of what makes our regions such great places to be is the wide range of industries they support, which is why we're backing the Portland North Employment Precinct with opportunities for more businesses to come to town."
As stated by Glenelg Shire Council Mayor Karen Stephens
"This is a proud moment for our community. The opening of the Portland North Employment Precinct and the arrival of Bunnings mark the beginning of a new era of growth, jobs and opportunity for Portland and the wider region."
"It's also a strong reflection of the Victorian Government's ongoing commitment to regional growth and ensuring communities like ours have the infrastructure and support needed to thrive."
As stated by Bunnings Director of Stores Rod Caust
"We're excited to open the doors and welcome customers from Portland and surrounding areas. Whether it's tradies picking up supplies, homeowners tackling renovations, renters refreshing their space, or families and DIY enthusiasts seeking inspiration, we're confident the new store has something for everyone."
"Until now, residents were having to travel around an hour and a half to shop at the nearest stores in Warrnambool or Mt Gambier. Our new Portland store brings Bunnings much closer to home, making it easier for locals to access the products and services they need."
