Petition to save auto manufacturing industry launches

The Make Australia campaign has launched an online petition calling on Prime Minister Tony Abbott and Industry Minister Ian Macfarlane to act to save Australia’s car manufacturing industry.

The Australian Manufacturers and Workers’ Union (AMWU) has lent its support to the petition, saying that if Holden ceases manufacturing in Australia, then Toyota will do likewise, resulting in the collapse of hundreds of auto component makers and the loss of tens of thousands of jobs.

“The current state of play is as serious as it gets. Holden have repeatedly warned that they will go unless the government provides assurance on co-investment funding,” said AMWU National Secretary Paul Bastian.

“In return, Holden will invest $1 billion in capital expenditure and continue to make cars here at least until 2022.

“Toyota too need assurances about the government’s willingness to back future car plans. They have made clear that if Holden goes or if there is no assurance from government they would find it very difficult to continue to manufacture here.”

The petition is available to sign here.