Minister for Manufacturing Sovereignty Ben Carroll has welcomed Boeing’s growth in Victoria, noting that the firm has created more than 200 new jobs in the state this year alone, an increase of about 25 per cent, boosting its employment in the state to more than 1000.
Minister Carroll said in a news release that the jobs offered by the aerospace manufacturer are supporting increased manufacturing of new commercial planes in response to expanding global demand.
Not only is the company expanding its workforce in the state, but it is also encouraging more women to enter the aviation trade through its Female Apprenticeship Program, which aims to enhance gender diversity in traditionally dominated roles.
The government also stated that Boeing’s Victorian presence is one of the largest outside of the United States, bringing together a unique blend of R&D, engineering, and advanced manufacturing in one place.
To date, all Boeing commercial aircraft components manufactured in Victoria are exported to the company’s final assembly facilities in the United States, which are located in either Seattle, Washington or Charleston, South Carolina.
Minister Carroll further stated that with additional high-skilled jobs being generated in our state, Boeing’s continued investment in Victoria validates the state’s standing as Australia’s capital of advanced manufacturing.
Boeing Aerostructures Australia was named Manufacturer of the Year – Large Business at the 2023 Victorian Manufacturing Hall of Fame Awards, which were sponsored by the Andrews Labour Government.
With large investments from companies like Hanwha, BAE Systems, Leonardo, Lockheed Martin, and Thales, Victoria is firmly entrenched as a top choice for major international corporations.
Through the Victorian Budget 2023/24, the Labor Government is also backing advanced manufacturers to bolster local capabilities through the $21 million Manufacturing and Industry Sovereignty Fund.
The government is also investing $4 million to support our defence and space sectors to secure more major contracts.
“Boeing’s enduring partnership with Australia is deeply connected to Victoria, having continuously manufactured aircraft components at our Fishermans Bend site since the 1930s,” said Boeing Aerostructures Australia Managing Director Mick Sorrenson.
