Second chance for Ford workers at new Dulux factory

WORKERS who lost their jobs when Ford shut its doors have been given a second chance with paint manufacturer Dulux setting up a $165 million factory in Merrifield in Melbourne’s north.

WORKERS who lost their jobs when Ford shut its doors have been given a second chance.

In a major boost to local industry, paint manufacturer Dulux has set up a $165 million factory in Merrifield in Melbourne’s north.

DULUX’S $165M PAINT FACTORY TO OPEN THIS YEAR

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The factory, built on 17ha of land, is the largest in Australia and a long-term investment in Victoria and jobs for the local area.

Robert Popovski worked at Ford Broadmeadows for 22 years before being made redundant in October 2016.

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Ali Assi, Robert Popovski and Kelum Wijesundara. Picture: Tony Gough

“We had four years to come to terms with it, but it was still a shock,” he said.

Mr Popovski said many of his friends at Ford struggled to find permanent work, so when he heard about the job at Dulux he “jumped on it”.

Ali Assi and Kelum Wijesundara both worked at Dana, a parts manufacturer for Ford before moving to Dulux. Mr Assi said the new job meant learning a new set of skills but “loved the challenge”.

More than 1000 people applied for about 60 positions at the new Merrifield factory. with Dulux sourcing many from the local area. “First and foremost, Dulux wanted a diverse workforce, reflective of the local community in the north of Melbourne,” a Dulux spokesman said.

DuluxGroup chief executive Patrick Houlihan. Picture: Adam Yip

Industry success stories like these will be featured at a community forum this week, which highlights the need for transformation and reinvention in planning for Australia’s future. The Strong Australia forum hosted by News Corp, Sky News and the Business Council of Australia will discuss how the community can tackle the challenges facing the nation.

Ford Australia president Graeme Whickman, DuluxGroup chief Patrick Houlihan, Business Council chief Jennifer Westacott and Kangan Institute chief Trevor Schwenke will take part.

The forum will take place on Thursday, April 12 in Broadmeadows.

For tickets visit strongaustralia.com.au