The Ballarat West Employment Zone (BWEZ) is a major success story for local job creation, with works on track to exceed expectations for the number of local workers, suppliers and materials sourced during construction thanks to the Allan Labor Government.
Minister for Regional Development Gayle Tierney today joined Member for Ripon Martha Haylett, Member for Wendouree Juliana Addison and the team from building firm Winslow Constructors to see first-hand the latest construction progress at the precinct.
The project is expected to be home to 1,200 workers when Stage 2 construction is completed - and is already a major jobs boost for locals, with almost 600 full-time jobs set to be created once businesses move in during the first stage of development.
Winslow is sourcing almost all materials from local suppliers during the precinct's ongoing build and is on track to ensure half the 136 construction jobs go to locals - exceeding the Labor Government's Local Jobs First Policy targets.
The Government's policy is making sure more opportunities are created for Victorian businesses and workers, including apprentices and trainees by requiring builders to source a high percentage of goods and work hours from local suppliers and workers.
Winslow Construction is sourcing 98 per cent of building materials from local suppliers during civil works now underway on BWEZ Stage 2, including 100 per cent of the asphalt and conduits used to protect electrical wiring.
Stage two of the BWEZ development includes drainage, gas, water, electrical and NBN connections along with internal roadworks, laying the foundations for the creation of an industrial precinct adjacent to Ballarat Airport.
Once completed, companies including McCallum Disability Services and Dahlsens Ballarat will begin construction of their on-site facilities - boosting the number of ongoing jobs created at the precinct to 1,200 and generating $171 million in investment.
Companies already located on site include CHS Broadbent, Kane Transport, Luv-A-Duck, Westlab and Athlegen.
The Labor Government announced the Ballarat West Employment Zone in 2015 as a $30 million joint initiative with the City of Ballarat to support Ballarat's long term economic growth.
Since then, the Labor Government has invested another $14.4 million to support delivery of the Intermodal Freight Hub within the precinct. The Federal Government has also backed the freight hub, contributing $27.8 million.
For more information, go to rdv.vic.gov.au.
As stated by Minister for Regional Development Gayle Tierney
"It is fantastic to see BWEZ taking shape, with local jobs, materials and opportunities for apprentices and trainees playing such a crucial role in bringing this important project to life."
As stated by Member for Ripon Martha Haylett
"BWEZ is a game-changer for our region, providing long term job opportunities and economic growth for Ballarat and local suppliers and workers are playing a crucial role in this vital project, showcasing the strength of our local workforce."
As stated by Member for Wendouree Juliana Addison
"BWEZ is boosting Ballarat's economy by creating hundreds of jobs and delivering for our community."
As stated by Member for Eureka Michaela Settle
"The success of BWEZ shows our dedication to the development, prosperity and growth of regional Victoria. This initiative is not only creating jobs but also ensuring that local businesses and workers are at the heart of this significant project."
As stated by Cr Des Hudson, Mayor of City of Ballarat
"BWEZ is key to ensuring a strong and prosperous economic future for Ballarat and the broader region - it will create jobs and opportunities, stimulate the local economy, and help support the significant population growth projected for our city in the coming decades."
