Coles Myer closure

By Rebecca Fraser
CASEY mayor Kevin Bradford has expressed his disappointment about the closure of the Coles Myer Distribution Centre in Hampton Park.
Cr Bradford said by choosing to close this distribution centre and cutting 580 jobs and displacing many employees, Coles Myer might be creating a massive hole in the local workforce.
“Whilst I respect that the company has made an economic decision to relocate elsewhere, I am worried for the future of the displaced workers and the impact this decision will have on both their families and the local economy,” he said.
At Tuesday’s council meeting, councillor Wayne Smith, whose ward encompasses Hampton Park, moved that the council write to Coles Myer and express disappointment over its decision to close.
The council’s strategic development department will also try to ascertain from Coles Myer how many Casey residents worked at the distribution centre and the company’s intentions for the site.
Cr Bradford said it would be interesting to see how many local families had been affected by the closure.
Coles Myer will open new distribution centres in Somerton and Laverton and may offer to relocate Hampton Park workers.
However, Cr Bradford said this could be impractical for local workers.
“Council works proactively to develop business and employment opportunities within the municipality so it is very disheartening when a company the size of the Coles Myer Distribution Centre closes its doors,” he said.
Cr Bradford said the City of Casey had long been a popular decentralised location for business and industry because there is plenty of available industrial land.
“I would encourage organisations considering new or expanded premises to consider moving to Casey to take advantage of the geographical benefits and vibrant workforce that we have to offer,” he said.
A report will come back to the council on the outcomes of Coles Myer’s response.