Make it here or jobs disappear | Fraser Coast News | Local News in Fraser Coast

INDUSTRY workers will unite at Maryborough City Hall at noon on Monday as part of a statewide bid for support.

Australian Manufacturing Workers Union state secretary Andrew Dettmer said there was an immediate risk to jobs at Downer EDi, where Queensland Rail had not committed to maintaining major contracts for rolling stock.

“This is an example of a local industry that has all the skills and facilities to fulfil large contracts, it just needs the support of government and Queensland Rail,” Mr Dettmer said.

“This area unfortunately has not fully benefited from the resources boom but the support industries for our mines and transport networks can still provide employment in areas like the Fraser Coast.

“It just takes some commitment and effort from the government to implement policies that will give the jobseekers in this area some hope that they can support their families in secure employment.

“Only decisive State Government action can ensure the Fraser Coast’s economic pulse starts beating strongly again.”

Mr Dettmer said major charities had recently identified the Fraser Coast as the “most disadvantaged” region in Australia.

A Uniting Care report released last week says more than 27 per cent of households in the Wide Bay-Burnett have to survive on less than $500 per week.

The region’s harsh economic conditions are hitting hard on the sunshine refugees from southern Australia, drawn to Australia’s fastest-growing region. Since 2003, more than 2600 people a year have come expecting warm weather and prosperity. The reality is different.

“It’s a region that can ill afford to lose jobs, especially in manufacturing and industry,” Mr Dettmer said. “The State Government must take decisive action to ensure Qld industries are considered first for tenders.”

“The campaign slogan is ‘Make it here or jobs disappear’ and we would like all the community to get involved.”