NATIONAL:The Council of Textiles & Fashion Industries of Australia (TFIA) has taken another swipe at the Federal Government's review into the sector, arguing the closure of a major manufacturer in Geelong highlighted the dire state of assistance to TCF firms.
As reported last week, textile firm Huyck Wagner would shut its doors early next year with 165 staff members to be made redundant between now and the first quarter of 2009.
TFIA executive director Jo Kellock said recommendations made in the TCF review would not prevent more manufacturers moving offshore. She said while the sector had endured a period of structural reform, further restructuring needed to be undertaken.
"Australia can't afford to continue to lose textile and manufacturing skills and during negotiations - as in the Huyck case - parties need to show flexibility to save jobs and encourage further investment."
Kellock argued the proposed $200 million TCF Innovation Capability Program - which would be delivered at an enterprise and workplace level from 2010 to 2015 - was insufficiant under the current climate and should be broadened to approximately $100 per annum and disqualify projects which were based or support operations outside of Australia.