Future Geelong: Large international employers make the move to Geelong in a major coup for the region

The bosses of two major international companies that have recently made the move to Geelong are talking up the region’s potential for future growth as they look to upskill the local workforce.

Headed by Paul Robson, KPMG’s new Geelong office boasts sprawling views of Corio Bay. Picture: Mark Wilson.

Korean defence giant Hanwha is having a significant impact on Geelong’s manufacturing and educational sectors before it has produced one military vehicle from its soon-to-be-opened Avalon facility.

Having secured two multibillion-dollar federal government contracts to build the next generation of armoured vehicles, the company’s Australian boss Richard Cho said Hanwha had been hard at work developing a strong local network.

Agreements with Deakin University and The Gordon have been entered into, as well as a high-level partnership with the Geelong Manufacturing Council (GMC).

“These agreements are very important to us,” Mr Cho said.

“It’s about establishing a long-term supply chain of resources … key to this is establishing a range of skill sets within Australia that can provide that assistance and support to our global approach.”

Mr Cho said choosing Avalon for its Australian base made sense on many fronts.

“The region has a strong history of vehicle manufacturing, with both Deakin and Gordon well placed to provide the next generation of workers,” he said.

Hanwha Australia boss Richard Cho. Picture: Mark Wilson.

“We wanted to make the most of that foundation while providing new opportunities for both locals and our international interests.”

Production at the Avalon site – located within a broader industrial precinct now home to Cotton On, Australia Post and Petstock – is expected to start before the end of the year.

GMC chief executive Jennifer Conley said Hanwha would provide important international exposure to local manufacturers.

“So many of our small and medium-sized enterprises are world class but they don’t necessarily have the reputation needed to penetrate international markets – working alongside Hanwha will give many of them that leg up,” she said.

Geelong council has capitalised on Hanwha’s move to the region, having entered into an agreement with its home city of Changwon to collaborate on trade, education and cultural exchanges, and to promote investment and employment.

Another international business that now has a Geelong presence is professional services firm KPMG.

It opened its office on level eight of the GMHBA building in August and will use it as a base for a push into regional Victoria.

KPMG partner and Geelong boss Paul Robson said the company’s enterprise division looked at where business was trending upwards and identified Geelong as a clear standout.

Mr Robson said the company wanted to leverage Geelong’s advantages to help businesses of all sizes grow.

“When you look at the statistics for Geelong, you’ve got 27 businesses that employ more than 200 people – we want to grow that number,” he said.

“We want to be actively involved in the Geelong business community, and we’re here to really support growth … bring our vast knowledge, skills and experience to the Geelong region.”

Mr Robson said lifestyle was a major drawcard for workers looking to move to the region.

“It’s got a relaxed way of life but it also can provide capital city careers outside of our capital cities,” he said.

“It’s got a fantastic natural environment and a really diverse economy.”

Committee for Geelong chief executive Michael Johnston said a key attraction for large businesses and investors was the chance to attract talent.

“We’re seeing, particularly some of the larger businesses that have arrived more recently, they’re drawing on employees that are either living down here, or are working at what is effectively a satellite office, or others that are going to be coming in, and maybe are being drawn in from the western suburbs of Melbourne,” he said.

“With the developments happening, certainly at Avalon in particular, it’s going to be increasingly important.”

Richard Cho

In one word, describe what Geelong stands for:

Welcoming

Describe what you think Geelong should stand for:

Vibrancy

Describe what differentiates Geelong from other regional cities:

Geelong has several unique features that differentiate it from other regional Australian cities. Its proximity to Melbourne allows residents to enjoy both urban and regional benefits. Geelong’s strong industrial base, with automotive, petrochemical, and aerospace sectors, contributes to its economic growth.

The city’s stunning coastline along Port Phillip Bay offers beautiful beaches and recreational activities.

Geelong also hosts cultural and sporting events, showcasing its vibrant arts scene.

Reputable educational institutions like Deakin University and The Gordon provide diverse educational opportunities to upskill their vibrant workforce.

Overall, Geelong offers a balanced lifestyle with urban amenities.

Paul Robson

In one word, describe what Geelong stands for:

Opportunity

Describe what you think Geelong should stand for:

Smart sustainable growth that leads to shared prosperity for everyone in the region.

Describe what differentiates Geelong from other regional cities:

Geelong is unique among Australia’s regional cities because it has a diverse group of industries driving sustained business growth.

The region also offers a great lifestyle, an amazing natural environment, world-class education and fantastic infrastructure with road, rail, international airport, and seaport.

We are well connected to the Melbourne metropolitan area and can easily take advantage of both national and global opportunities while maintaining our distinct regional identity.

We are all passionate about growing a city and region that benefits everyone and is prepared to face the challenges of the future.

Originally published as Future Geelong: Large international employers make the move to Geelong in a major coup for the region