Oakdale Industries

Following the recent bush fires in Hobart, the Australian Government has provided additional funding of almost $30,000 to assist Oakdale Industries with repairs and equipment.

The Minister for Community Service, John Cobb, today presented a cheque to Oak Enterprises to help the organisation with its insurance claim, conduct hazard reduction, replace damaged fencing and purchase additional fire equipment.

‘As a division of Oak Enterprises, Oakdale Industries offers employment support for people with disability, who process and machine high quality, competitively priced timber products.

‘During the bush fire, supervisory staff at Oakdale Industries worked through the night to contain the fires and without their dedication the buildings may have been burnt to the ground.

‘Oak Enterprises is the largest employer of people with disabilities in Tasmania, providing employment support to 150 people with disabilities in a number of business activities.

‘The organisation receives over $1.2 million a year in Australian Government funding through Disability Employment Assistance.

‘Under the Howard Government’s Business Services Assistance Package, Oak Enterprises will receive a further $455,000 in funding so it can continue to provide its invaluable service.

‘Using this funding, Oak Enterprises has been able to engage a business consultant and purchase an automated mailing system for its Mailhouse outlet.

‘The Australian Government recognises the value of employment in a persons life and is committed to supporting the disability employment sector, giving opportunities for more Australians to actively participate in their community,’ Mr Cobb said.