Sign in Subscribe
Automobile industry

Federal Government Leads Mission to Boost Australia's Car Industry

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

In a bid to retain a car manufacturing industry, the Australian Government is leading a 20-strong mission to the US and Britain, headed by Innovation, Industry, Science and Research Minister Kim Carr and former premier Steve Bracks. The team will meet with top executives and government officials to explore new business opportunities, capitalizing on the recent signs of a rebound in the US car industry. Despite the establishment of a $6.2 billion new car plan last year, the sector's future remains uncertain, with 16,000 jobs lost in the year to May and operating at half capacity.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Australian Government is leading a mission to the US and Britain to boost the country's car industry, with 20 executives and experts participating.
  • The mission, headed by Kim Carr and Steve Bracks, will meet with top executives at Ford and General Motors, as well as government officials and leading technology companies.
  • The US car industry has shown signs of a rebound, with a recent investment of public money by the Obama Administration providing an opportunity for Australian companies to get involved.
  • Australian designers, scientists, and manufacturers are hoping to be part of a global supply chain, with potential contracts in green car technologies and Australian-made parts.
  • The CSIRO will have a representative on the mission to explore opportunities for collaboration and innovation.
  • Senator Carr emphasized the importance of Australian companies being proactive in building capacities and seeking opportunities, rather than waiting for others to come to them.
  • The Australian car industry is operating at half capacity and has lost 16,000 jobs in the year to May, according to the Bureau of Statistics.

Statistics:

  • 20-strong mission to the US and Britain to boost the car industry.
  • $6.2 billion new car plan established last year.
  • 16,000 jobs lost in the year to May in the Australian car industry. (Bureau of Statistics)
  • Australian car industry operating at half capacity.
  • US car industry showing signs of a rebound, with a recent investment of public money by the Obama Administration.

Sources:

  • Shaun Carney, "Federal Government leads mission to US to save car industry", [Source not provided]
  • Bureau of Statistics, [Source not provided]
  • Senator Kim Carr, quoted in Shaun Carney's article.

Read more