Australia's only automotive glass manufacturing facility in Geelong, the former Pilkington plant, has been reopened. According to Industry Minister Senator Kim Carr, the reopening of the plant demonstrates the power of partnerships between industry & government. "This reopening is not just great news for the working families of Geelong, but for our resilient & innovative automotive industry," Senator Carr said. "Not only have 68 auto jobs & critical industrial capacity been preserved, but we have even succeeded in securing new investment. This is a credit to all concerned, & especially to the new owners, MHG. The company has demonstrated great courage & vision in the hardest of economic times. The reopening has been assisted by AUD 4.5M from the Auto Ind Structural Adjustment Program, part of the Rudd Government's New Car Plan for a Greener Future." 'The announcement comes at a time when automotive manufacturers worldwide are seeking to trim their balance sheets in the aftermath of the worst global recession in a generation.' 'MHG's acquisition of the Geelong plant is an important example of the supply chain consolidation we need, and a great gesture of faith in Australia's automotive future.'
