The Andrews Labor Government has backed more local Gippsland businesses to drive growth and create almost 100 new jobs across the region.
Minister for Industry and Employment Wade Noonan and Member for Eastern Victorian Harriet Shing today toured Gippsland Solar in Traralgon to announce new grants from the Labor Government’s $10 million Latrobe Valley Economic Facilitation Fund.
Gippsland Solar has received a grant to expand its operations and invest in new technology to meet an increased demand for solar power systems.
The company will also create 14 new full-time jobs and provide employment and training opportunities for ex-Hazelwood and supply chain workers.
Gippsland Solar has become the largest supplier and installer of solar power systems in Eastern Victoria, with major customers including local governments, hospitals, aged-care facilities, builders and local businesses.
Other grant recipients announced today include Money Talk, Valley Windows, GBG Concrete, KB Industries, ATR Communications, Holland, and Anglicare Victoria.
The Latrobe Valley Economic Facilitation Fund has already secured more than $18 million in investment across 13 businesses and created nearly 250 jobs across the region.
The Government has also launched the Latrobe Valley Supply Chain Transition Program, an extension of the successful Hazelwood Supply Chain Transition Program.
This will extend the support provided to Hazelwood supply chain businesses to include the supply chain of other major Latrobe Valley employers that have closed or are facing closure.
The Labor Government has made record investments in the Latrobe Valley and Gippsland, with projects including the Gippsland Line Upgrade, Morwell Hi-Tech Precinct and Latrobe Valley GovHub.
Projects across the region are expected to create more than 850 direct jobs and 1,650 construction jobs.
The $266 million transition package is supporting economic growth, creating new jobs and fulfilling a promise to get behind Gippsland and Latrobe Valley communities.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Industry and Employment Wade Noonan
“We believe in a future of growth for Gippsland and the Latrobe Valley, and that’s why we’re making investments now to support businesses and create jobs.”
“Our grants programs are helping local businesses and workers while also offering opportunities for former Hazelwood workers to transfer their skills.”
Quote attributable to Member for Eastern Victoria Harriet Shing
“We are working hard to deliver more certainty and momentum for Gippsland's communities. That means getting behind local businesses, creating jobs and investing in a bright future for our region.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020