By NICOLE VALICEK
HOBSONS Bay City Council and Toyota will work together to meet the challenges ahead, according to Mayor Sandra Wilson.
Hobsons Bay City Council Mayor Sandra Wilson said talks with Toyota recently showed the company has a clear understanding of the community’s needs.
The talks follow Toyota’s announcement on 10 February that the company will be withdrawing from manufacturing vehicles in Australia from late 2017.
Cr Wilson said the council and Toyota will work together to meet the challenges ahead.
“The council has been considering for some time how to minimise the impacts of structural change on the local economy and the local community,” Cr Wilson said.
Cr Wilsons said the aim at this point is for the council to gain the best possible understanding of Toyota’s timelines and future plans.
“That’s why we are working on an economic development strategy as well as working with Lead West to advocate for new industries and jobs for Hobsons Bay and the west generally.”
A spokesperson for Toyota said it was important for Toyota to work with all of their stakeholders to determine the best level of support they can provide.
“Ongoing counselling services are available to all of our employees and we will also organise job skill training, such as resume writing, interviews and presentation skills, during the next few months,” the spokesperson said.
The council has also offered to support Toyota wherever possible, particularly in its role as an advocate with other levels of government.
The council will continue to talk with Toyota on a regular basis to ensure the transition will be as smooth and easy as possible for our local community.
Cr Wilson was quick to stress that it is still early stages for the manufacturer’s withdrawal.
“As far as Toyota is concerned, they are continuing to meet their export demands and it is business as usual.”
