The addition of a second shift at Holden's vehicle assembly plant at Elizabeth in South Australia suggests the automotive manufacturer is confident the industry is on-the-rise.
The second shift, commencing in November, will be needed to manufacture the new small vehicle at the plant, the Holden Cruze.
According to Innovation Minister, Senator Kim Carr, this news shows strength, resilience and ingenuity of the Australian automotive sector in the wake of the worst global recession in a generation.
"I know this announcement will be fantastic news to the Holden's highly skilled workforce, which has dealt with some uncertainty in recent times," said Carr.
"This second shift will reward the workforce by returning full-time jobs to 300 assembly line workers. It means that all Holden Vehicle Operations employees will return to full employment.
"If recent sales are any indication, the locally built Cruze is going to be a success for GM Holden. Its manufacture will provide ongoing opportunities for the Australian automotive supply chain.
"The government is contributing $149 million from the Green Car Innovation Fund to help Holden localise the environmentally friendly Cruze.
"Today's announcement is further proof that the Government's $6 billion vision for the industry, A New Car Plan for a Greener Future, is realistic, achievable and supporting jobs right now.
"We will continue to work with Holden and the entire Australian automotive sector to develop a modern, innovative industry that provides high-skill, high-wage jobs".
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