AWU urges support for sector following Oceania Glass collapse

The Australian Workers’ Union has said “understandable concern” among members had followed the voluntary administration of Dandenong’s Oceania Glass, and raised a perceived lack of support for domestic glass manufacturing.

In a statement on Wednesday, the union said its priority is currently “to gather comprehensive insights and secure explanations” from management and administrators of the collapsed company.

Grant Thornton Australia partners were appointed as administrators on Tuesday.

The AWU claimed that the situation “highlights a broader crisis”, with very few Australian-owned and operated glass manufacturing companies remaining, and that an “influx of cheap imported” products had contributed to an undermining of local businesses and manufacturing capabilities.

While the federal Future Made in Australia economic plan promised $22.7 billion in investment, there was a lack of specific support for domestic manufacturing, according to the AWU.

The union’s Victoria Secretary Ronnie Hayden said there was a need to “address the broader crisis” in manufacturing. 

“While the government speaks of a ‘Future Made in Australia,’ we need concrete action to protect and strengthen our domestic manufacturing capabilities, particularly in essential industries like glass production,” said Hayden.

Oceania Glass employs approximately.260. It is reportedly the only maker of architectural glass in the country and specialises in float glass, coated glass and laminated glass

The first creditors’ meeting is scheduled for February 14.

Picture: credit Oceania Glass