- Published:
- Sunday 11 February 2018
The Andrews Labor Government today launched a renewed campaign to win a Federal Government contract to build next-generation military vehicles – creating up to 2,000 jobs.
Victoria has partnered with BAE Systems Australia, which has put forward the AMV-35, in its bid to win the $5 billion LAND 400 project.
The new campaign promotes the strengths of Victoria’s defence industry and proven track record in manufacturing military vehicles as the Federal Government readies to make a decision on LAND 400.
The campaign features local workers from AME Systems and Marand, who are part of BAE Systems’ supply chain, along with other Victorian defence companies from across the state including MOOG Australia, Motec, RUAG Australia, DVR Engineering, Parker Hannifin and APV.
Victoria is the home of manufacturing in Australia, recording 12 consecutive months of growth in manufacturing – the longest run of expansion since 2003 – despite the closure of automotive manufacturing.
Victoria’s defence sector is worth $8 billion to the local economy every year, and is made up of about 20,000 workers and more than 400 businesses.
If BAE Systems is awarded the LAND 400 contract, it would add close to $1 billion to Victoria’s economy and create up to 2,000 manufacturing and supply chain jobs, providing valuable opportunities for ex-automotive industry workers.
The Labor Government believes the decision should be based on the merit of the bid, not how many marginal seats the contract might win for Malcolm Turnbull in Queensland.
Victoria’s message to the Prime Minister is simple – LAND 400 belongs in Victoria. We have the proven workforce, the expertise and the supply chain to get it done, and get it done well.
Quotes attributable to Acting Minister for Trade and Investment Ben Carroll
“We’re fighting hard for Victorian jobs – we have the skills and proven track record needed for this critical project.”
“This is an opportunity for Malcolm Turnbull to repair some of the damage his party caused when they abandoned Victoria’s auto workers.”
“This decision should be made in the best interests of our defence force, our troops and our country. It should not be made in the best interests of Malcolm Turnbull’s political career.”