Shire of Manjimup shows support for Auswest employees

MEDIA RELEASE - Shire of Manjimup shows support for Auswest employees

October 2016

The Shire of Manjimup has been involved in discussions with Auswest Timbers WA, in the wake of an announcement that the Auswest facilities in Manjimup and Pemberton will be closing in 2017, with a view to expand the Greenbushes sawmill.

Shire President Wade DeCampo said he has had many discussions with concerned employees and fellow community members since the announcement was made. "As soon as we were informed of the closures, the Shire, together with the South West Development Commission, have been working together to rally support services for the affected employees," explained Cr DeCampo.

"Shire and SWDC representatives have also had the opportunity to meet with Auswest to determine the level of assistance that is required for each of the employees affected. Everybody's situation is different, which means that advice and assistance needs to be tailored to the individual and their families," said Cr DeCampo.

Cr DeCampo went on to explain that the Shire are comfortable with how the closures have been dealt with by Auswest, and that the Shire will remain in close contact with Auswest throughout the process, to ensure that the needs of the employees are being met.

"The long term wellbeing of the employees has remained paramount and we're staying involved to ensure that this continues," explained Cr DeCampo.

"Traditionally, Local Government Authorities don't get involved in the operations of commercial enterprise or employment, but the Shire of Manjimup is of the belief that if it affects the community, it affects us, and we need to be there to advocate," explained Cr DeCampo.

-ENDS-

Authorised by Andrew Campbell, Chief Executive Officer

Contact Gina Nieuwendyk, Coordinator Communication and Executive Support

Contact: 9771 7777

Contact for comment: Wade DeCampo, Shire President.

Contact: 0427 094 081