Avalon Airport is ready to soar with the opening of a new industrial precinct, thanks to an Andrews Labor Government investment to attract business and create jobs in the Geelong region.
Treasurer Tim Pallas today opened the new state-of-the-art Cotton On National Distribution Centre at the new Avalon Airport Industrial Precinct.
The new distribution centre will secure 300 jobs – with Cotton On relocating their Lara operation – and kick start the 40-hectare industrial precinct, which aims to attract businesses to locate their operations on site.
By 2026, the industrial precinct is expected to create 750 direct jobs on site, and 1,100 indirect jobs – boosting the already growing local economy.
With a $1.5 million investment though the Regional Jobs and Infrastructure Fund, the government has ensured essential infrastructure is available on site, including gas supply, water supply, fibre optics and electricity.
The Labor Government also helped to secure a $40 million investment from Avalon Airport and Geelong-based Cotton On Group to develop the purpose built distribution facility.
The development of the new industrial precinct will help the airport diversify its operations and secure its future as a freight and logistics hub, with the capability of servicing a variety of industry sectors.
This investment builds on previous Labor Government investments in the future of Avalon Airport, including an agreement with Jetstar to secure flight operations at Avalon for ten years from 2015.
Avalon Airport hosts approximately 700,000 domestic passengers each year as the gateway to the Bellarine Peninsula and the Great Ocean Road, and provides an alternative departure and arrival point to Tullamarine.
The boost to the region is consistent with the growth in the economy and jobs market – with more than 18,000 jobs created in Geelong and its surrounds since the Labor Government was elected in November 2014.
Quotes attributable to Treasurer Tim Pallas
“The Andrews Labor Government is investing in vital projects that boost Victoria’s economy, support local businesses and create jobs in our cities and regions.”
“Securing a globally growing company like Cotton On is a show of confidence in Avalon Airport’s future and the future of Victoria as the location of choice for businesses.”
Quote attributable to Member for Lara John Eren
“With new carriers, international flights and now Cotton On’s relocation, the sky is the limit for the ever-expanding Avalon Airport.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020