In a major win for local jobs, the Andrews Labor Government has helped secure a $40 million investment from Avalon Airport and its first major tenant, the Cotton On Group, at the airport’s proposed new industrial precinct.
The move locks in 300 existing jobs at the Cotton On Group and supports future growth with the company’s major distribution centre moving from a size-constrained site in Lara to a new purpose built 35,000m² facility.
The project will also kickstart the 40 hectare industrial precinct, acting as a drawcard for other businesses wanting to locate their operations here.
The investment will deliver crucial infrastructure for the precinct including roads, electricity and utilities.
Last month, the Labor Government announced a $1.5 million investment towards the airport’s industrial precinct to help diversify its operations and cement its future as a freight and logistics hub. This support has opened the door to this further investment by the Cotton On Group.
It is estimated by 2026, the industrial precinct project will have created 750 direct jobs on site and up to 1100 indirect jobs.
Cotton On Group is the largest private employer in Geelong and a growing global business with an international workforce of over 20,000 employees. This is an important investment for the Cotton On Group, who have been looking for a suitable site for a state-of-the-art distribution centre for more than five years.
The Labor Government is currently undertaking Victoria’s boldest ever trade and investment campaign, showcasing the state’s strengths as a business location. The campaign seeks to encourage investment, grow exports and build on the 150,000 jobs that have been created since the Labor Government came to office.
For more information about doing business in Victoria, please visit tradeandinvestment.vic.gov.au.
Quotes attributable to Premier Daniel Andrews
“We’re working hard to ensure Avalon Airport meets its true potential. With this fantastic investment from the Cotton On Group, Avalon’s new industrial and commercial jobs hub will really take off."
“Victoria is leading the nation in economic growth – but we’ll never rest on our laurels, and we’re determined to chase every opportunity to secure jobs right across the state.”
Quote attributable to Member for Geelong Christine Couzens
“I’m proud to be part of a government that not only saved Avalon Airport but is seeing it grow stronger than ever. The Cotton On Group’s investment at Avalon is a continued vote of confidence in Geelong and a win for local jobs.”
Quote attributable to Member for Bellarine Lisa Neville
"Our investment in Avalon has not only secured the airport's future - it's opened the door to more private investment that will result in jobs for our community and a stronger regional economy."
Quote attributable to Cotton On Group CFO Michael Hardwick
“We are incredibly proud of our Geelong heritage and the contribution we have been able to make to the Geelong community over the last 25 years. We are thrilled to be part of the development of the new industrial precinct at Avalon Airport.”
Quote attributable to Avalon Airport CEO Justin Giddings
“We’d like to thank the Premier for all his support towards Avalon Airport and helping make the industrial precinct a reality. We’re thrilled that Cotton On Group will be joining the precinct as our anchor tenant. The precinct will provide great opportunities for further developments and will create more jobs for the Greater Geelong region.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020