By NOEL MURPHY
FORD Geelong workers facing redundancy could be forgiven for thinking their employer is on top of the world instead of sacking half its workforce, standing down staff for weeks and closing factories.
Ford Australia this week announced a raft of new models and initiatives as part of a charm offensive in Sydney, away from Geelong and Melbourne where the company will close factories in 2016.
Ford announced a new line-up of 11 global vehicles to be available by 2017 along with new technologies, features, apps and research and development plans.
Ford Motor Company president and chief Alan Murray painted a picture of an auto-maker anything but on the skids.
“We are introducing more great vehicles to Australian customers more quickly – with more innovation, more first-to-market safety advancements and more features customers really want and value,” Mr said.
“We also are committed to Australia as one of our product development centres of excellence, with talented designers and engineers creating vehicles and technologies here in Australia for the world.’”
Ford announced new models for marques including Falcon, Fiesta, Mondeo and Transit commercial vehicles as well as Mustang imports and an Everest concept SUV.
The announcement failed to mention plant closures or downsizing in Victoria.
Ford cited its history working with Deakin University in research and development, saying it would expand its collaboration with Australian universities.
Ford also sang the praises of its Australian product development team, based at Geelong, and stressed the importance of research and testing through the company’s You Yangs proving ground.
Australian Metal Workers Union vehicle spokesman Dave Smith described the announcements as “bitter-sweet”.
“We’re pleased people in product development get to keep their jobs but the bitter side is we think Ford could have made a go of manufacturing in Australia.”
Mr Smith was bemused about Ford hosting the announcements in Sydney.
“Perhaps they thought they’d hold it in a state where the irony about all these new imports – while in the process of sacking 1200 people – wouldn’t be noticed.”
The Independent revealed last week that Ford planned numerous down days for staff in its Geelong factory as the Rudd Government’s fringe benefits tax changes reduced sales.
