Kim Carr (Victoria, Australian Labor Party, Minister for Innovation, Industry, Science and Research) Share this | Hansard source

I thank Senator Marshall for his timely inquiry. We have just passed the second anniversary of the New Car Plan for a Greener Future. This plan is a 10-year strategy to transform the Australian automotive industry. It is a plan for innovation. It is a plan not just to save the car industry but to actually change it. We are building a greener, more globally competitive industry for the benefit of all Australians. This is about ensuring we have high-wage, high-skill, green jobs in manufacturing in Australia. It is about rolling out cars that are easier on the environment and easier on the pocket.

The key to transformation is new investment. The government provides its support on a co-investment basis. When the global economic crisis hit, car makers across the world went to the wall. The plan was instrumental in Australia in maintaining and building our advanced manufacturing capabilities. Yesterday Holden resumed its second shift operation at Elizabeth with the new production of the Cruze for export orders. That means jobs for another 165 workers. This is good news for the industry. Of course, it also builds upon the support we have seen through Ford’s $230 million investment in ecoboost technology and advanced liquid injection LPG systems for the Falcon, not to mention Toyota’s investment in bringing the Camry and the Hybrid Camry to Australia with a new engine plant.

We have seen with the new plan the component sector also improving its global competitiveness. We are providing the technology and the products for the car industry in China and increasing exports to the United States. The new car plan is bringing investment to Australia and innovation to the automotive industry. (Time expired)