The Andrews Labor Government is helping former automotive workers manufacture some of Victoria’s lifesaving fire and emergency response vehicles.
Minister for Industry and Employment Wade Noonan and Member for St Albans Natalie Suleyman visited R A Bell & Company in Sunshine North to meet the workers bringing these vehicles to life.
R A Bell & Company received a $1 million grant from the Labor Government’s Local Industry Fund for Transition (LIFT) to create 51 new jobs, including 39 opportunities for ex-auto workers.
Among their latest recruits is Peter Langdon – a former Ford worker with almost 40 years’ experience. He has traded the production line for a job building some of our most recognised emergency vehicles.
R A Bell & Company currently fits out vehicles for organisations including the Country Fire Authority, State Emergency Service, Victoria Police and Metropolitan Fire Brigade. It’s also constructing a new manufacturing facility and investing in equipment to boost productivity.
The company is a leader in the design and manufacture of large drain cleaning, hydro-excavation vehicles and engineering services used in the water industry.
The Government is standing by workers and communities affected by the closure of automotive manufacturing.
Grants of up to $2 million are available to businesses to create new jobs and expand their operations. For more information about LIFT, visit
Quotes attributable to Minister for Industry and Employment Wade Noonan
“From the production line of our major car manufacturers to building the next fleet of emergency vehicles – we’re creating exciting new pathways for auto workers.”
“These grants are helping companies innovate, invest and employ local people in communities hardest hit by the end of local vehicle manufacturing.”
Quotes attributable to Member for St Albans Natalie Suleyman
“R A Bell & Company is a vital part of the local economy. It’s a third generation family business that now employs more than a hundred people, while also providing opportunities for ex-auto workers.”
“It’s great to see the continued success of this proud local company in our community.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020