An emphasis on economic development is paying off in Hume. Currently boasting $317 million of commercial and industrial construction for the period 1997-1999, Hume has the highest level of investment in this sector, of any Victorian Municipality outside the Melbourne CBD. The City is experiencing a boon in both small and large investment.
Hume has a long history as a home to some of Australia’s most active and prosperous companies including Ford Australia which, for over 40 years, has stood as a landmark on the Hume Highway.
Early in 2000, The Age newspaper is set to join the party by commencing construction of its $220 million printing facility in Tullamarine.
The growth in investment is largely due to Hume’s natural commercial advantages, according to David Hall General Manager Economic Development.
“We are close to the airport and other major traffic routes into and out of Melbourne,” he said. “As Steve Harris, Publisher and Editor in Chief of The Age said at Council’s December Business Breakfast, ‘The Age’s decision to invest in Hume is all about location, location, location.’
“In addition, there is plenty of competitively priced land, skilled workers ready and able to take up jobs, and complementary industries located nearby.”
He said these natural advantages have been actively assisted by Council policies to foster further business growth together with an active campaign to encourage new investment to the City.
Apart from issuing the Hume Business Directory, and hosting regular Business Breakfasts, the City offers competitive rates. It also provides new industry with up to date economic and demographic forecasts, specialised advice on locating their businesses and other practical assistance.
Council’s Economic Development Committee assists Council with its economic development activities and comprises representatives form business, community, education and government. The Committee is chaired by Russell Scoular, Government Liaison Manager, Ford Australia.
David Hall said other Council activities such as the drive to improve the City’s appearance give added incentive to industry to locate to Hume.
In addition to commercial and industrial activity, the City also has a sizeable rural sector including vineyards, alpaca farms and a burgeoning tourism industry. David Hall believes he has the most interesting Economic Development job in Melbourne due to Hume’s great diversity and high level of economic activity.
The impressive list of local product includes everything from Nestle’s Kit Kats, Australian bank notes, Craiglee Shiraz, and Yakka overalls to recycled cardboard at Visy. “I can spend the morning discussing agricultural issues with vignerons and the afternoon looking at the effect of tariff policy on Hume’s manufacturing industry,” he said.
Numerous new developments point to an exciting future for Hume, including the relocation of the Melbourne Greyhound Racing Headquarters to Hume that commenced operation in 1998. In addition, the first 5 star hotel outside the Melbourne CBD, the Hilton will be built at Melbourne Airport.
