5 September 2024 

Assistant Minister for a Future Made in Australia, Senator Tim Ayres, will host a forum in Newcastle, NSW on Friday 6 September to discuss bringing manufacturing and good jobs to the Hunter region with the Albanese Government’s Future Made in Australian plan. 

The $22.7 billion Future Made in Australia package is committed to using Australia's transition to net zero emissions to return manufacturing to regional Australia – clean, new, modern manufacturing which will deliver good new jobs to outer suburbs and the regions.   

The Hunter offshore wind area is a key priority area that has been identified to establish Australia’s offshore wind industry. Offshore wind is a giant investment for the region – it will bring 3,000 construction, manufacturing and steel fabrication jobs and 300+ operational and maintenance jobs to the area. 

The Capacity Investment Scheme has also begun, with the Government seeking competitive tender bids to bring an additional 32 gigawatts of renewable energy and battery storage capacity online by 2030. 

Senator Ayres, along with the Hon Pat Conroy MP and Sharon Claydon MP will be at the University of Newcastle to speak with Hunter businesses, unions, and community groups to discuss how the government’s investments can provide the greatest possible benefits for the Hunter. 

Quotes attributable to Assistant Minister for A Future Made in Australia and Assistant Minister for Trade Tim Ayres: 

“A Future Made in Australia means manufacturing returns to regional communities. New investment in manufacturing will create new jobs and career opportunities, including apprenticeships and careers in engineering, science, and technology for boys and girls in school today.

These are good jobs that young families can build a quality life around and that communities can count on.  

Good jobs with purpose that contribute to a stronger and more resilient Australia.” 

Quotes attributable to Federal Member for Newcastle Sharon Claydon: 

“Since announcing the $22 billion Future Made in Australia package, I have been inundated with interest from local industry and businesses, who are keen to get involved. 

“That is why I have invited the Assistant Minister for a Future Made in Australia, Senator Tim Ayres to Newcastle to discuss the benefits of the Albanese Government’s plan.

“It is an exciting time to be living in Newcastle, because a Future Made in Australia, means a Future Made in Newcastle.” 

Quotes attributable to Pat Conroy, Member for Shortland: 

“The Hunter has a proud manufacturing history. This excellence will continue, and in fact will grow under A Future Made in Australia. 

“The Albanese Government is committed to seeing more things made in our region and utilising our skills and resources to create new well-paid, secure jobs.”