National Logistics City gathers momentum
Tue, Aug 14 2007

A Case for a National Logistics City� developed by the Institute for Logistics and Supply Chain Management (ILSCM) has attracted keen interest from industry with over 60 representatives from a wide-range of organisations attending the ILSCM and the Victorian Government, Department of Industry, Innovation, and Regional Development (DIIRD) one-day strategic workshop last week.

ILSCM�s Director, Dr Pieter Nagel said: �There were representatives from key logistics organisations and representatives of government organisations, including VicRoads and the Port of Melbourne Corporation, and from seven municipal councils � Brimbank; Hobsons Bay; Maribyrnong; Moonee Valley; Wyndham; Hume; and Whittlesea.�

�One area where there was instant agreement across participants was the need for the availability of high speed broadbrand to make the concept work.�

�There was also consensus on the need for a manufacturing strategy for Victoria - taking a long term view looking out 30-40 years.�

�Following on from the workshop, the first thing we will do is consider the very wide range of views that were brought to the table and that will take a few weeks.�

�The next step will be to appoint a reference group, which will have a broad advisory role and provide a sounding board, and a steering group, which will focus on the more nuts and bolts issues of the National Logistics City.�

Speaking about the benefits of a National Logistics City at the workshop, Michael Proffitt, CEO, Dubai Logistics City said: �The advantages will show up in 10 to 15 years � it really is about benefits for the next generation, not for ourselves. If we miss this opportunity then we will lose the opportunity for job creation and then it would be very hard to make up that lost ground.�

The workshop was opened by the Hon Tim Pallas, Victorian Minister for Roads and Ports, who said: "The transport, logistics and the supply chain sector is a key component of our state's economy. It is a $21 billion industry, employs over 240,000 people and accounts for just under 15 per cent of our Gross State Product.�

"It is imperative that we invest in infrastructure across the west to ensure we provide employment opportunities and economic prosperity for local communities. We want to retain Victoria's status as the nation's supply chain capital and we are open to new ideas to continue its success. With a growing industrial base and an increasing population, the western suburbs have the potential to play a pivotal role in meeting this objective."