JULY 14, 2020 – The union representing vehicle builders, the Australian Manufacturing Workers’ Union (AMWU), is calling on the South Australian Government to invest in local jobs by building 25 new trucks for the CFS fleet here.
Peter Bauer, the AMWU SA State Secretary, said that the union welcomed the Government’s announcement that they would be boosting SA’s emergency services, but that it was crucial that investment supported local jobs.
“South Australia has a proud history of vehicle building and we have the skilled workers available to do the job. Building these 25 fire trucks here will support local jobs, communities, and families”, Mr Bauer said.
“COVID-19 has shown the importance a local manufacturing industry. Relying on outside supply chains is risky. By building our fire trucks here, we can ensure that they are maintained to the highest standard and if something goes wrong, the people who built the trucks are nearby to fix the problem”, Mr Bauer said.
5.2 per cent of South Australian workers lost their jobs between March and June, and the Performance of Manufacturing Index shows that the industry is facing its most challenging conditions since the GFC.
“This is a no-brainer – if you’re spending taxpayer’s money, you should be spending it here and supporting South Australian jobs”, Mr Bauer said.