Manufacturing in Victoria could suffer another massive blow if the Government fails to award a new Defence Material contract to the locally made Bushmaster, the AMWU has warned.

On Tuesday union members rallied in Bendigo with Federal MP Steve Gibbons and Thales employees and local residents to keep Australian Infantry Mobility Vehicles made in Australia.  

AMWU National Secretary Dave Oliver told the rally the Bushmaster was a significant contributor to the Bendigo economy that needed the support of all Victorians. 

“For every single one of the 300 jobs making the Bushmaster, there are hundreds more jobs created in communities around the state.

“Why would the Australian government award the contract elsewhere and send these jobs overseas?”

As a part of the Australian Army’s Afganistan deployment 2300 medium and heavy trucks will need to be made in the coming years. Just over half of which will need to be fitted with protection for operational deployment.

Thales Australia has proposed a single cab variant of its trusted Bushmaster, which the Defence Force say has saved over 50 Aussies troops since its operation.

Rival manufacturers in Europe have proposed a civilian vehicle fitted with armour.

Mr Oliver reminded the rally of the international reputation the Bushmaster had acquired.

In reference to comments made by Commander Lieutenant-Colonel Pete Connolly in 2009, he said it was the vehicle of choice for Australian troops.

“We know that the Bushmasters are the best.

“Our soldiers get it, our army gets it, we get it and that’s why it’s important we make sure the Government gets it.”

Defence Material Minister Jason Clare will announce in the coming months the successful tender for the next phase in the Army’s Land 21 program.