The Andrews Labor Government has reaffirmed its support for local businesses with the opening of the largest cold storage facility in Melbourne, a development which is expected to result in 30 new local jobs.
Opening the new $18 million facility in Epping, Minister for Industry Lily D’Ambrosio congratulated Chashampal Gill and Ravi Prasad for taking the initiative with the cold storage concept and establishing their business.
The Iceland Cold Storage facility, conveniently located near the wholesale fruit and vegetable market, has six blast freezers with the capacity to freeze 950 tonnes a day and hold up to 10,000 frozen pallets at a time, using six loading docks to minimise the loading/unloading time. The company will also provide a reliable warehouse management system, quarantine services and inspections, shrink wrapping, transport and export documentation for its customers.
The Labor Government is supporting the transition of the state’s economy through targeted sector strategies, helping businesses find ways to use their skills to create new products and reach new markets.
Through its $200 million Future Industries Fund, the Government will fast-track support for industries such as the food and fibre sector. Emerging businesses will also be assisted to get their ideas off the ground with the $60 million Start Up Victoria initiative.
The Government is also fostering strong links with at risk industries to monitor job losses and structural change, assisting with strategies to manage short term impacts, help workers into new employment and build long-term productivity.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Industry Lily D’Ambrosio
“The Government is committed to supporting business to grow and employ in Melbourne’s north and across the state.”
“Through a range of measures, we will help businesses find ways to use their skills to create new products and reach new markets. This will help secure today’s jobs and create the jobs of tomorrow.”
Quote attributable to Labor Member for Thomastown Bronwyn Halfpenny
“We recognise that local businesses, such as Iceland Cold Storage, are the engine of our economy and look forward to seeing the company grow.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020