Oceania Glass, a glass manufacturing company based in Dandenong, has entered administration, prompting concern among workers and union representatives.
The Australian Workers’ Union (AWU) is actively seeking detailed information on the company’s current situation as it works to understand the full implications of the development.
The AWU is focusing its efforts on gathering comprehensive insights and securing explanations from both Oceania Glass management and the appointed administrators.
The situation, according to AWU representatives, underscores a broader crisis in Australian manufacturing, with an increasing number of Australian-owned and operated glass manufacturing companies facing challenges.
Ronnie Hayden, AWU Victoria Secretary, highlighted the threat posed by cheap imported glass products, which have undermined local businesses and contributed to the administration of companies like Oceania Glass.
“Our immediate focus is on understanding the situation and supporting our members through this challenging period,” said Hayden.
“However, we must also address the broader crisis in Australian manufacturing. While the government speaks of a ‘Future Made in Australia,’ we need concrete action to protect and strengthen our domestic manufacturing capabilities, particularly in essential industries like glass production.”
Oceania Glass, with its rich heritage dating back to 1856, has long been a cornerstone of Australia’s glass manufacturing industry.
The company operates from its Dandenong facility, employing approximately 260 staff and producing 165,000 tonnes of flat glass annually.
The AWU has announced plans for Victoria Secretary Ronnie Hayden to meet with both State and Federal ministers to discuss the future of Oceania Glass and the glass manufacturing sector in Victoria.
The AWU believes that the company’s administration highlights the urgent need for better support for domestic manufacturing.
Hayden also expressed concern that while the Federal Government’s “Future Made in Australia” economic plan promises $22.7 billion in investment across various sectors, there is insufficient support for local manufacturers.
“We are currently in the process of organising a meeting with our members and state ministers to explore the company’s status and potential support options,” Hayden said.
AWU Victoria Assistant Secretary Jimmy Mastradonakis, who has worked with the Oceania Glass workforce for over two decades, emphasised the importance of securing clarity from management and administrators.
“For over two decades, I’ve worked alongside our dedicated members at Oceania Glass. These workers are not just employees – they represent generations of skilled manufacturing expertise in Victoria. We’re determined to get clear answers from management and administrators about the future of this operation,” Mastradonakis said.
