No Jobs Plan Is Bad News For Geelong Families

The Baillieu Government needs to start taking action to protect jobs in Geelong, Leader of the Opposition Daniel Andrews said today.

Mr Andrews, with Member for Lara John Eren, Member for Bellarine Lisa Neville and Member for Geelong Ian Trezise met with the Geelong Manufacturing Council, Port of Geelong, Shell and Avalon Airport management to discuss jobs and the economy.

The meetings follow this week’s Australian Bureau of Statistics figures that reveal that 16,600 full-time jobs had been lost in regional Victoria since Mr Baillieu took office in November 2010.

“Geelong has a strong industry sector and a proud history of creating jobs, but in recent months there are worrying signs for the local economy,” Mr Andrews said.

“Qantas is reviewing jobs at Avalon, 600 jobs are under threat at Alcoa, and Ted Baillieu is refusing to rule out slashing hundreds of jobs at TAC and the public sector.

“For too long, the Baillieu Government has refused to outline its plan on how it will protect and secure jobs and attract investment to Geelong.

“Jobs growth doesn’t happen by accident – it needs a Government prepared to do the hard work to boost business confidence and attract investment.

“Unfortunately, the only signal the Premier is sending to investors and the community is Victoria is closed for business.

“If Mr Baillieu cared about jobs in Geelong, he’d have a jobs plan.

“The Government’s inaction is not good enough – it’s hurting families and businesses.”

Mr Andrews said his visit to the region was about listening and supporting Geelong’s industry and workers.

“What industry and workers need is action and investment in Geelong, not more excuses from the Baillieu Government,” he said.

“Where are the 1000 jobs for the Port of Geelong that Ports Minister Dennis Napthine promised as part of his proposal to move Victoria’s car trade to the Port of Geelong?

“Where is the support to protect jobs at Avalon Airport, Alcoa and other industries in the region?

“Where is the jobs and infrastructure plan for Greater Geelong?

“How many Geelong residents have to lose their job before Mr Baillieu starts doing his?”