Victorian waffle pods supplier Unipod will build a state-of-the-art manufacturing plant in Truganina to accelerate its plans to become a major supplier to the construction industry.
Unipod manufactures Expanded Polystyrene waffle pods which are used to build concrete slabs for residential buildings, extensions and commercial industrial installations.
The $9.8 million project, which is being supported with funding from the Local Industry Fund for Transition (LIFT), will give the company the ability to produce Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs) that are used in wall, roof, floor and civil construction projects.
Visiting the company’s premises in Derrimut on Friday, Minister for Industry and Employment Wade Noonan said the investment will allow Unipod to take on 92 new workers, with 85 roles suitable for former automotive workers.
“From the vehicle production line to construction manufacturing – we are making sure automotive workers get the job opportunities they deserve,” the Minister said.
“We are proud to support Unipod so they can expand their operations in Melbourne’s west and create local jobs for local workers at a time when they are most needed.”
Member for Altona Jill Hennessy said LIFT has already supported 34 projects that are expected to create 881 new jobs, including 726 suitable for former automotive workers.
“We know the west has been hit hard by the end of local car manufacturing,” she added.
“That’s why we are creating new pathways for auto workers in booming industries like construction, so they can put their skills to good use.”
