December 23, 2016
Local businesses have secured a large share of the construction works underway at the East Sale RAAF Base.
Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester said half of the sub-contracts awarded in the first stage of the $200 million upgrade had gone to local companies including
GBG Concrete and Constructions, Laser Plumbing, R & M Engineering, Work Hire Australia, WR & EL Jones Electrical, Kwik Solutions and SMEC Australia.
“The success of local businesses is a welcome boost to jobs and the economy across the region,” Mr Chester said.
“This Federal Government investment in RAAF Base East Sale further secures the base as a major employer in our region; it’s providing work not just for Defence personnel, but also small businesses.
“I’m pleased local employers and contractors are continuing to benefit from the work being done at the RAAF Base. All Gippslanders should be proud of the base and the economic benefits it is drawing to our region.”
In May, Mr Chester announced Gippsland would become the home of all Australian Defence Force pilot training with the AIR5428 contract.
Thirty contracts have been awarded for the first stage of works. Of these, 15 have been awarded to businesses within 75km of the base, with most based in Sale.
“This large investment in RAAF Base East Sale is delivering significant direct and indirect economic benefits in the Gippsland region. Importantly, it’s creating employment opportunities for subcontractors and suppliers,” Mr Chester said.
“I have previously met with project managers and reiterated my support for local contractors wherever possible.
“I hope to see more of the pending contracts awarded to local businesses so Gippsland can continue to benefit.”
Caption: Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester discusses local job opportunities with Daniel Smolenaars from Laser Plumbing.
