Job creation is the number one priority for the Hodgman Liberal Government. That’s why it is very pleasing to see Launceston’s ACL Bearing Company return from its closure more than 12 months ago to be back in business and re-employing around 40 of its former employees.
This is a significant jobs boost for the northern economy. We know that the northern economy has not been growing at the same pace as other parts of the state, which is why the Liberal Government’s recent State Budget included a $60 million Northern Cities Major Development initiative, as well as nearly $200 million in new capital investment in the North and North West.
Put up for sale in 2013 and ultimately closed due to market forces in mid-2014, it is fantastic to see ACL back up and running and employing people in northern Tasmania.
ACL has re-emerged under innovative new ownership because of ongoing international demand from high performance engine platform manufacturers for the high-quality bearing product produced at the Launceston plant.
This demonstrates that there is a strong future in Tasmania for advanced manufacturing.
On behalf of the Liberal Government we welcome ACL back to Launceston and look forward to the factory continuing to employ more Tasmanians.
