Industry group drives jobs boosts sector

A new Industry and Manufacturing Advisory Group (IMAG) is set to drive jobs and boost growth in Queensland’s $19 billion manufacturing industry.

Minister for State Development Dr Anthony Lynham said Queensland’s manufacturers employ more than 165,600 people and that manufacturing is the third largest employer of full-time workers in the state.

“Given the size of the industry, there is scope for the government to support increased productivity, employment growth and encourage the building of a more competitive industry through greater access to major domestic and global supply chain opportunities,” Dr Lynham said.

“I am pleased to say that the Palaszczuk Government is delivering on another election commitment with the establishment of this group.”

The nine-member industry and manufacturing advisory group includes five women and numerous representatives from industry and unions.

“It was important that we got the mix right with a range of experience in small and larger businesses,” he said.

“This includes some really business savvy entrepreneurs and innovators.

“I will chair the group so I can hear directly from stakeholders about how the Queensland Government can work in partnership to build and promote Queensland’s manufacturing industry.

“The group will concentrate on a number of areas including changing demand and emerging opportunities, productivity and competitiveness, innovation and technology, local content, business costs and industry regulation.”

The group held its first meeting on November 24 and in the future will meet up to three times a year.

Group members:

• Christine Bridges-Taylor, General Manager, B&R Enclosures
• Marina Chambers, Organiser, Australian Workers’ Union (AWU)
• Jemina Dunn, State Director (Queensland), Australian Industry Group (Ai Group)
• John McLean, Chief Executive Officer, Bundaberg Brewed Drinks
• Rohan Webb, State Secretary, Queensland and Northern Territory, Australian Manufacturing Workers’ Union (AMWU) who will provide representation from union and industry bodies
• Tim Shaw, Managing Director, Micreo,
• Andrew Spink, Executive General Manager, Passenger, (Victoria and Queensland Rail), Downer Group
• Karen Stanton, General Manager, HTA Group of Companies
• Julie Williams, Chief Executive Officer, AgSolutions Australia.

For more information visit:  statedevelopment.qld.gov.au/IMAG

[ENDS]                       2 December 2015

Media contact:           Jan Martin                 0439 341 314