Bracks launches plan to create 50,000 new jobs in Sunshine

Former Premier Steve Bracks will today release a bold plan to create 50,000 new jobs in Sunshine by capitalising on the major transport investments, such as the Airport Rail Link, and building on the region’s economic strengths in sectors such as health, education and manufacturing.

Mr Bracks said the ‘Sunshine – Daring to be Great’ strategy, developed by the West of Melbourne Economic Development Alliance (WoMEDA) chaired by Mr Bracks, identifies ways to build on Sunshine’s existing strengths and capabilities.

“Sunshine has a chance to build on its proud working history by becoming a major economic, social and transport hub for Melbourne and Victoria,” he said.

“Targeting particular sectors such as health, construction, public administration, tourism, retail, manufacturing and care services all make sense for Sunshine.

“Construction is one of the most rapidly growing industries in the West, whilst manufacturing is one of the largest employers in Brimbank and still has significant growth potential.

“The presence of Sunshine Hospital and the newly built Joan Kirner Hospital creates a significant opportunity to grow jobs in the health care sector, and create more leading research collaborations.

“Developing a Jobs Institute in Sunshine will also tackle the key challenge of growing jobs outside of our major CBD areas.”

WOMEDA Deputy Chair and Victoria University Vice Chancellor, Professor Peter Dawkins, said the strategy provided an opportunity to deliver enhanced health and education services and higher community amenity, while delivering social outcomes.

“We are already developing the capability to do rapid prototyping to assist local firms to innovate faster and create greater value for our local manufacturing sector.

“With the preferred airport rail route stopping at Sunshine there’s also an opportunity to grow the visitor economy. This could include developing a convention centre, new hotels, and major sports and cultural drawcards.”

“The creation of a new elegant town centre, recreational spaces and stronger linkages between local parks will be important to maximise Sunshine’s potential.”

WoMEDA was established in 2016 to catalyse economic development in the west, which will also lead to improved social engagement and health outcomes. The Alliance includes members from across the education, health, business and community sectors.