THE region has done just about all it can.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Now, it’s time for more action from the government to save the Port Kembla steelworks and Australia’s steel industry.
The threat of closure lingers over BlueScope’s Illawarra steelmaking operations.
If the company can’t find $200 million in annual cost savings – and cut 500 jobs in the process – the steelworks will be mothballed at the expense of about 5000 direct and indirect jobs, potentially more.
The news plunged the region into uncertainty, but also propelled people into action – a steely resolve to save the industry.
Support has come from the Illawarra and beyond. From Fremantle and Whyalla, to Melbourne, Mackay and the Central Coast, more than 15,000 people have put pen to paper on a community-driven petition.
On Thursday morning, a gold box – made from BlueScope steel – will arrive at NSW Parliament House in Sydney, filled with copies of the petition.
If the box itself wasn’t remarkable enough, have a think about what it holds – 15,300 signatures scribbled in support over a period of just a couple of months.
In doing so, supporters have called on the NSW Government to use 100 per cent Australian-made steel in its infrastructure projects.
The Mercury has been right behind the fight to #saveoursteelworks and we will be there when the box, dubbed “Solid Gold – community support for Australian steelmaking”, is delivered to the region’s MPs.
“Could the NSW Government provide the same please?” is the question on the box. The Australian-made and BlueScope logos have been strategically placed nearby.
Petition organisers say BlueScope Port Kembla has 3500 direct employees, 1100 embedded contractors and 2769 Australian companies are direct suppliers to the steelworks.
Early last month, we launched our very own campaign, using the above-mentioned hashtag. There’s too much at stake to sit back in silence and watch what unfolds.
Lee Evans, Ryan Park, Noreen Hay, Anna Watson and Gareth Ward – it’s over to you.
SAVE OUR STEEL COMMUNITY RALLY – Noon Saturday, Crown Street Mall, Wollongong (corner Kembla and Crown streets).