Tuesday 13 August 2013

GOVERNMENT WELCOMES JETSTAR $1.5 MILLION NEWCASTLE INVESTMENT

Jetstar is investing $1.5 million in new training and apprenticeship programs at its heavy maintenance base at Newcastle.

"I am pleased to see that Jetstar is continuing to grow its operations at Newcastle Airport. By offering 10 new four-year apprenticeships the company is providing a welcome boost to local employment and to the aviation industry," Minister for Tourism and Major Events and Acting Minister for Trade and Investment, George Souris said.

"It is vital to the NSW economy that the travel industry continues to grow, especially in regional areas such as Newcastle. These new apprenticeships are a good sign that companies now have the confidence to invest in regional NSW."

Jetstar Australia and New Zealand CEO David Hall said the new opportunities were the result of the airline's continued growth and expanding scale, and that he was pleased to see more investment in the Newcastle region.

"As the launch port for our first flight in May 2004, Newcastle is a special place for Jetstar and we're pleased to provide more job opportunities in this vibrant area. Recently we've invested more than $800,000 in capital expenditure at this base - a clear reflection of our continued commitment to engineering in the region," Mr Hall said.

Member for Port Stephens, Craig Baumann, said that this was yet another welcome shot in the arm for the Hunter region.

"Newcastle Airport is an important regional asset and this announcement will further its development. I am also pleased to see yet another boost to local employment opportunities," Mr Baumann said.

Member for Newcastle, Tim Owen, said it was pleasing to see that the private sector is matching the Government's considerable investment in the Hunter.

"The recent 2013-14 Budget saw the Government commit $340 million with the aim of revitalising Newcastle, and this private sector support is invaluable in helping to achieve this." Mr Owen said.

Jetstar currently employs 90 engineers at the Newcastle maintenance base. The low fares airline operates up to 60 return services in and out of Newcastle each week to destinations including the Gold Coast, Brisbane and Melbourne.

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