Latrobe Valley workers and businesses are set to reap the benefits of the future Gippsland Hi-Tech Precinct, with the state government mandating that 91 per cent of labour and materials be locally sourced.
Minister for Industry and Employment today announced the local content requirement, which includes sourcing local labour and maximise the use of local steel.
Announced in November 2016, the $17 million precinct will be based at Federation Training’s Morwell campus and will result in 80 construction jobs with the government predicting hundreds of further jobs to follow.
The precinct will focus on growth sectors such as health, food and fibre, advanced manufacturing and new energy.
The government hopes the precinct will accelerate the adoption of new technologies, attract new investment to the region and centralise research and innovation already taking place.
“The Gippsland Hi-Tech Precinct will not only bring innovation and education to the region but it will harness the skills and expertise of local businesses and workers,” Mr Carroll said.
In 2016, Fujitsu was announced as the site’s anchor tenant with Vincent Crisp Architects named in April last year to design the master plan for the site and William Ross Architects designing the project’s innovation centre.
The Hi-Tech Precinct is expected to open in 2020 and is a partnership between the Latrobe Valley Authority, Regional Development Victoria, Federation University, Federation Training and Latrobe City Council.
Member for Eastern Victoria Harriet Shing said the “Hi-Tech Precinct will provide jobs for local workers and local businesses – I’d encourage as many local suppliers as possible to get involved”.
The government is expected to appoint a developer to oversee the project later this year.
Latrobe Valley businesses that are interested in taking part in the project should contact the government’s Industry Capability Network which helps local firms wishing to take part in government projects.
The network will also work with firms that want to tender for the project.
Companies interested in taking part in the project can phone 9864 6700 or visit icnvic.org.au.
