AMWU Queensland and Northern Territory Secretary Andrew Dettmer has welcomed an
announcement from Treasurer and Minister for Economic Development and Industry, Andrew
Fraser, that new legislation will protect locally-made content.

Mr Fraser made the announcement at the AMWU Queensland State Conference in Brisbane on Friday.

The Treasurer announced he will be proposing new legislation to cabinet that will entrench
the Local Industry Policy and ensure its enforcement across Queensland government agencies
and corporations.

“Our Union has campaigned hard for the rights of local manufacturers to be protected by strict
local content procurement legislation,” Mr Dettmer said.

“Basically, we want components that are destined for Queensland infrastructure and projects
to be made locally where possible.

“We also wanted all areas of Government as well as Government-owned corporations to make
this a top priority. The legislation Mr Fraser announced this morning will make this happen.”

AMWU Local Organiser Brad Hansen said the announcement was a significant win for the
people of Maryborough and the broader Fraser Coast region.

“The hard work of AMWU members in our region has no doubt been a significant factor in this
announcement,” Mr Hansen said.

“We’ve worked hard to fight for protection of our jobs and to keep contracts – including the
contract for the manufacture of 200 trains – locally.

“We’ve been very vocal in our support of the Union’s Manufacturing Matters campaign and our
voices have been heard on George Street.

“I also asked the Treasurer this morning about potential downturns for our industry prior to
commencement of work in our region, even if we win the tender.

“He responded that the Government are aware of it and will investigate options to help us
maintain the economic integrity of our region.”