A Shorten Labor Government will create jobs in Moorabool Shire by helping the Parwan Employment Precinct to grow.
The populations of Bacchus Marsh and Moorabool Shire are growing rapidly. An extra 20,500 people are expected to be living in the Shire by 2041.
This growth is good news – but jobs and business opportunities need to keep pace with a bigger population.
In this context, the growth of the Parwan Employment Precinct is crucial. The Precinct is already home to a number of successful businesses, including mushroom production, chicken farming, a quarantine facility and a logistics depot, and in the future, red meat processing and glasshouse production will open.
In partnership with these businesses, Moorabool Shire is working to grow the Precinct into a world-class agribusiness hub. Over time, this is expected to create 1,200 jobs – an important boost for a local economy that is in transition.
But the growth of the Precinct and the jobs it will create is being constrained by a lack of infrastructure. Existing and new businesses need better access to utilities, and particularly to natural gas.
A Shorten Labor Government will invest $1.5 million to help create jobs by bringing natural gas to the Parwan Employment Precinct. Labor’s contribution fully meets Moorabool Shire’s request of the Federal Government.
In combination with contributions to be sought from local businesses, Moorabool Shire and the Andrews Government, Labor’s investment will extend the existing gas pipeline from South Maddingley Road to the Precinct. This will enable existing businesses to grow, and encourage new businesses to set up or relocate to the Precinct – meaning more jobs for Moorabool Shire.
“I’m thrilled that a Shorten Labor Government will create jobs by backing the Parwan Employment Precinct,” said Ms King.
“This project is an economic shot in the arm for Bacchus Marsh, Moorabool Shire and our entire region. Only Labor is committed to the Precinct and the jobs it will create.”
Ms King congratulated Moorabool Shire and local businesses for their vision and advocacy for the Parwan Employment Precinct.