Geelong Advertiser - Jeff Whalley, September 27th, 2008
FORD Australia is considering selling its iconic engine plant site. The company yesterday said the historic Melbourne Rd site could be off-loaded to fund future investments.
Ford spokesman Edward Finn yesterday said the plant in the north-west corner of the property was being considered for sale.
"Ford announced last year that it will be closing its engine assembly operation in 2010 and consistent with that plan, Ford has commenced discussions as to how best to utilise that facility," Mr Finn said.
"This includes the possible sale of the facility to fund investment and drive Ford's ongoing business objectives."
In mid-August, the motor giant announced plans to cut up to 350 workers from its Geelong and Broadmeadows plants in mid-November.
This news came on top of 600 Ford Geelong job cuts from 2010 when six-cylinder engine production ends.
This week the motor giant named former Geelong engineer and senior manager Marin Burela as the heir apparent to take over as president and chief executive officer on October 1, becoming the company's first Australian boss since 2004.
Australian Manufacturing Workers' Union car division federal secretary Ian Jones has urged the Federal Government to implement reforms to the industry based on the review by former Victorian premier Steve Bracks in order to save the industry.
On its release in August, Mr Jones applauded the report's authors for picking up on the union suggestions, including doubling the green car fund and addressing the problems faced by workers who lose their jobs.
"The panel faced one first test to determine whether they want a car industry," he said.
"They have passed that test. The second part was crafting a policy in terms of environment. They have passed that test."
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