The Andrews Labor Government is backing the growth of hundreds of jobs in the Bacchus Marsh region with a landmark investment in a new gas gate to attract new businesses.
Minister for Regional Development Mary-Anne Thomas joined Member for Buninyong Michaela Settle, Member for Melton Steve McGhie and local business leaders to see early City Gate Gas Connection Project works at the Parwan Employment Precinct.
The Labor Government has invested $2.7 million towards the gas connection initiative from the $2.7 billion Building Works fund, established last year to stimulate jobs and investment across the state in response to the economic impacts of coronavirus.
The completed pipeline will double gas capacity to the Bacchus Marsh area and is scheduled to be completed by mid-2022. At 2,880 hectares, the site is more than 1,400 times the size of the MCG and will ultimately host 80 commercial properties with a focus on agribusinesses, including new processing facilities for L&G Meats.
The gas project is expected to enable Parwan Employment Precinct, 45 kilometres west of Melbourne, to attract businesses employing up to 1,500 workers over six years.
The City Gate Gas Connection project has been funded in partnership with the Moorabool Shire Council and L&G Meats.
The Labor Government's Building Works package is providing immediate benefits to communities across the state, with more than half of the projects funded in rural and regional Victoria.
The shovel-ready projects will create jobs now and provide lasting benefits in response to the challenges brought about by coronavirus, drought, and bushfires. For more information visit rdv.vic.gov.au.
As stated by Minister for Regional Development Mary-Anne Thomas
"This shovel-ready project is set to transform business and employment opportunities around Bacchus Marsh - it's a game-changer."
"With a state-of-the-art gas connection, Parwan can become an innovative, export-oriented hub for agriculture and agribusinesses, and attract businesses that will provide hundreds of jobs for local people."
As stated by Member for Buninyong Michaela Settle
"The Parwan City Gate Gas Connection Project is an exciting step towards driving significant new business to the area and it's fantastic to see work underway."
As stated by Member for Melton Steve McGhie
"The Parwan upgrade will enable our region to attract new agribusiness investment and create jobs. L&G Meats coming on board with the project is a real vote of confidence in the region."
