Rudd Government must step in and assist Aware Industries: Mirabella

23-January-2009

Federal Liberal Member for Indi, Mrs Sophie Mirabella MP, is pleading with the Rudd Government and Parliamentary Secretary for Disabilities the Hon. Bill Shorten MP to intervene and accept Aware Industries’ request for assistance in order for them to continue their important work in disability employment services.

“Aware Industries is an invaluable support service for some many local residents and families and it would be a tragedy if this vital local resource was lost to the Albury-Wodonga area because the Government failed to intervene,” Mrs Mirabella said.

“Last week I meet with CEO Ian Thompson and the Board of Aware Industries to discuss the company’s current business position and seek assistance for their changing support needs.”

“Aware Industries wrote to the Parliamentary Secretary for Disabilities Bill Shorten seeking assistance but has not had a response from the Rudd Government to date,” Mrs Mirabella said.

“The staff and board at Aware Industries perform noble work. Since 1982 they have provided work placement and training opportunities enabling people with disabilities to secure employment and make a valuable contribution to our community. I am pleading with the Government to step in and save this local institution.”

“The changing business environment ultimately means Aware Industries faces an uncertain future with business opportunities harder for its employees to secure. However Aware Industries provides a vital support service to the community, especially in disability support and this must continue,” Mrs Mirabella said.

“I have written to the Parliamentary Secretary for Disabilities Bill Shorten MP seeking his support to ensure Aware Industries and the service it provides continues to operate throughout the Albury Wodonga area,” Mrs Mirabella concluded.