Media release – Ed Husic MP, Shadow Minister for Industry & Innovation, Member for Chifley; Senator Helen Polley, Senator for Tasmania & Ross Hart, Federal Labor Candidate for Bass, 4 May 2022
WEAVING A NEW FUTURE FOR LAUNCESTON’S WAVERLEY MILLS
An Albanese Labor Government will back the redevelopment of Waverley Mills in Launceston to support more jobs in northern Tasmania and give new life to Australia’s oldest working textile mill.
Labor will invest $6 million to preserve the mill and improve safety, transforming the site into a state-of-the-art facility at the forefront of sustainable wool recycling.
As well as helping support jobs in manufacturing, this upgrade will unlock new potential for the site as a tourism destination.
The project will support 120 ongoing jobs once complete.
The upgraded Waverley Mill will also support new training opportunities in northern Tasmania through its collaboration with industry and tertiary institutions.
Labor’s investment is supported by funding that has already been committed by the Tasmanian Government.
Only an Albanese Labor Government will partner with all levels of government and local industries to deliver the investments northern Tasmania needs to kick start the next generation of economic growth and secure local jobs.
Attributable to Ed Husic
“Labor believes the next decade should be one where we make things here at home again – with Australian workers, Australian resources and Australian ingenuity.
“This project is a perfect example of how Labor will support this aspiration at a local level, right here in Northern Tasmania.”
Attributable to Ross Hart
“This is investment is a massive win for northern Tasmania.
“Waverly Mills is an iconic Launceston business and this upgrade will give it new life.
“I have made it my mission to bring more jobs in manufacturing to northern Tasmania so I am pleased to have secured this commitment from Labor.
“This is all about creating more secure local jobs and growing industries right here in Launceston.”
Attributable to Helen Polley
“Tasmanians deserve better after almost a decade of complacency on secure, well-paid jobs under Scott Morrison and the Liberals.
“I’m proud Labor is making this commitment today.”
