The Victorian government has flagged plans to create an “aviation precinct” in the state as it seeks to attract businesses that could make up for lost Qantas jobs.
Aviation Minister Gordon Rich-Phillips last night released a discussion paper on the plans and called for feedback from the aviation industry and training providers. He said the plan would see seek to co-locate training, maintenance and other aviation businesses in an effort to improve efficiency.
“By co-locating these services, the precinct will offer more streamlined, targeted aircraft training, including classroom and on-the-job learning environments, to ensure we are training skilled aviation professionals to meet demand,” Mr Rich-Phillips said. “The collaboration that will result from bringing industry, education and business together will lead to greater innovation and productivity.”
The move comes a week after Qantas announced more than 500 job cuts in Victoria as it closes its heavy maintenance facility at Melbourne Airport. Union officials say they believe the airline will also likely close its facility at Avalon Airport near Geelong within a few years.
