Media Release by The Hon Tanya Pibersek MP

Nation Building Economic Stimulus Plan supporting construction jobs in Melbourne’s west

Joint Media Release with:

  • The Hon Brendan O'Connor MP, Member for Gorton

Tanya Plibersek and Member for Gorton, Brendan O’Connor today inspected social housing repairs and maintenance in Melbourne’s west.

The Rudd Government is spending $99.2 million right across Victoria on social housing repairs and maintenance by mid 2010 as part of the Nation Building Economic Stimulus Plan.

In this instance, a property in Keilor Downs is undergoing internal and external painting, a kitchen upgrade including new cupboards, sink, taps, rangehood and wall tiles, and further renovations to the bathroom, toilet, laundry and family room.

The total value of works is $31,175.00.

Ms Plibersek said the Rudd Government’s $6.4 billion investment to build 20,000 social housing dwellings and repair tens of thousands more across the country will stimulate the building and construction industry during the current tough global economic climate.

“Nearly 70 percent of the Nation Building Economic Stimulus Plan is infrastructure and when the stimulus package gets up to full steam, there will be around 35,000 individual construction projects around the country,” Ms Plibersek said.

“The social housing component of the Nation Building Economic Stimulus plan has been estimated by Treasury to support 15,000 jobs nationally over the next 2 years.

“It’s not just about jobs for builders, tradespeople and their apprentices but also associated industries such as building manufacturers and suppliers who help keep the Australian economy ticking over.”

Mr O’Connor said the housing and construction sector is a major employer in the Australian economy.

“The Rudd Government is taking practical steps through its Nation Building Economic Stimulus Plan to cushion the impact of the global financial crisis by supporting jobs in the construction sector,” Mr O’Connor said.

“It’s great to see local jobs are being protected during these tough global economic times. In addition, there is the important social benefit of providing more affordable housing to people who need it the most.

“I’m pleased that over $1.13 million is being invested in my electorate to provide repairs and maintenance to 65 social housing dwellings.”