More investment needed to realise Victoria’s manufacturing powerhouse
MEDIA RELEASE
The Greater South East Melbourne Council Alliance (GSEM) says the 26/27 Victorian Budget has not adequately invested in the state’s manufacturing powerhouse.
While it was pleasing to see close to $20 million invested in initiatives to support the electrification of the food manufacturing sector and to help businesses in the gas appliance manufacturing supply chain to diversify, it is not enough to realise the full potential of manufacturing in the region.
According to Cardinia Shire Mayor Cr Brett Owen, the South-East’s position as Victoria’s manufacturing powerhouse should not be taken for granted.
“Without targeted investment to help manufacturers modernise, plan for future industrial land and build workforce capability, we risk seeing jobs and investment stall or move elsewhere,” he said.
“GSEM continues to call for investment in a fund for SME manufacturers so they can uptake new technology, automation and the digital transition. They would also like to see an industrial land plan, further training for the sector and a shared forum for manufacturers in the region to collaborate.”
The alliance welcomes investment in transport through funding to progress development of the Victorian Renewable Energy Terminal at the Port of Hastings as well as the already announced investment in bus services.
“Major rail projects will only deliver their full benefits if people can get to stations easily and reliably,” Cr Brett Owen said.
“Improving bus frequency and reliability is one of the quickest and most cost‑effective ways to reduce congestion and make better use of our rail network.”
It is also pleasing to see broad investment in education across the region through funding to upgrade Hastings Primary School and Pakenham Consolidated School as well as planning for a new secondary school at Pattenson Road.
Further, the budget confirmed funding to deliver a Digital, AI and Technology TAFE Centre of Excellence at Chisholm Institute’s campus in Frankston.
Health services also received a boost through funding for the Pakenham Community Hospital and the redevelopment of the Dandenong Hospital.
The Metropolitan Roads Upgrade program will benefit several roads in the region, but as one of the state’s most important freight and commuter corridors, there is much more needed to reduce congestion for commuters and increase productivity for businesses.
GSEM represents communities and businesses in the municipalities of Cardinia, Casey, Frankston, Greater Dandenong, Kingston, Knox, Monash and Mornington Peninsula. The body includes representatives from each local council, and is supported by an Independent Board comprising Simon McKeon, Margaret Fitzherbert and James Merlino. See gsem.org.au
Media contact: Maggie Hill 0404 196 452