This is what informed IndustrySearch readers have to say about the issue...
Former Auto Worker | 19/02/2014
"So what are these 'new industries'? Surely we should already know before we wipe out what we have? Why will Australia get these 'new industries' when other countries would offer better incentives? After all if the USA will contribute more than $500 million to a $1.6 billion VW auto plant then I am sure they will want to attract these 'new industries' as well."
Julie | 20/02/2014
"The previous government spent $40 million trying to keep Alcoa afloat. Everyone in the industry knew it was only a matter of time before they closed. The rising cost of employment in Australia is a problem. Our unions sit back and blame everyone else but maybe they need to look at what they do. Employees need to be responsible as well and have ethics which have long gone, and employers need to do same."
Julie | 21/02/2014
"These same people and unions that are complaining about jobs, what vehicles are they driving and are they sticking to buying Australian Made? In the end people can't whinge if they are not helping alleviate the problem.
Think about our future, our kids and grandkids buy Australian and stop the rot. Why should it be cheaper to get things from overseas (freight shipping costs etc)? Maybe we need to look at this, I know employment costs are high here but surely the freight must outweigh these. Have you ever tried to send something outside your own state or even within? The government also needs to look at tariffs and look at these free trade agreements – are we really benefitting?"
Former Auto Worker | 21/02/2014
"I had a manufacturing company in Australia. It wasn't viable and we now import products. Wage rates were not my major issue. I would like to support Australian made but I will not go broke doing it. (I am happy for my taxes to support local industries.) Other countries do support manufacturing.
As a director you are legally required to get the best return for your shareholders. In many cases this means going overseas. The government must have a strategy to encourage local manufacturing or more will move overseas. We also need to look at local freight. You can buy and import a small item from China for less than it will cost to freight that same item within Australia. I would be happy with tariffs in a consistent government policy. I would love to be manufacturing in Australia again."
