Campbelltown MP Greg Warren has joined Labor’s skills spokesperson Prue Car in urging the state and federal governments to prioritise local businesses when it comes to the construction of Sydney’s second airport.
The next stage of tenders recently opened up for the $5.3 billion project at Badgerys Creek.
The latest tender relates to the bulk earthworks package which will include cut and fill works, decontamination and master grading of the site.
Ms Car said the project was an opportunity to employ a significant amount of young, local apprentices.
Mr Warren said western Sydney residents and businesses deserved to be given the opportunity to be heavily involved in the construction of the airport.
“Residents throughout western Sydney – including Campbelltown – shouldn’t have to wait until the airport opens before they can find a job,’’ he said.
“If this state government is serious about job growth in western Sydney, then start the ball rolling now.
“Say to western Sydney-based businesses, if you can put in a fair and competitive offer, we will prioritise you when it comes to finalising tenders.
“It’s important to stress that tenders would have to be fair and competitive and companies who may not be up to the task weren’t awarded the tenders due to their post code.
[social_quote duplicate=”no” align=”default”]“But let’s get serious about promoting job growth in western Sydney for western Sydney residents.”[/social_quote]
The tender for the bulk earthworks package must be complete and submitted by Friday, August 24.
“The jobs at the Western Sydney Airport should be jobs for Western Sydney residents,’’ Prue Car said.
“Too many residents travel outside the region each and every day for work, and the airport will provide a chance for thousands of locals to work closer to home.
“With apprenticeship completions in decline and the consistent attacks on TAFE, the opportunities for young people to skill up on this project are clear.”
