Victoria used to be the manufacturing heartland of Australia. But over the past 20 years, the number of manufacturing jobs in Victoria has fallen by more than 50,000. Our state and nation are not as self-sufficient as we used to be and that needs to change.

Our plan would establish a $1 billion manufacturing fund to encourage industry to bring manufacturing home to Victoria. Industries of national importance such as supply of protective equipment, medical research and defence procurement should be prioritised.

We need to encourage local business to take the bull by the horns & invest in our future just like Quality Fabrication & Engineering in Woori Yallock. Their ‘Road Ant’ is a truck that can be driven from both ends, eliminating the danger of reversing. I was most impressed when I saw it in action and took a ride.

This article was originally published in the community newsletter distributed by Cindy McLeish MP, Liberal member for the Eildon electorate. You can download the newsletter here.