Please note: Images in this article were taken before current COVID-19 safety measures were in place.
Phillip Island Nature Park’s $58 million revamp of the Penguin Parade Visitor Centre is set to benefit more than just the penguins, with over 200 jobs to be supported as a result of the local content requirements of the project.
Under the government’s Local Jobs First – Victorian industry Participation Policy, the project will be required to use at least 89 per cent local content, and maximise the use of local steel products made from locally milled steel.
The project is also subject to the Major Projects Skills Guarantee, with apprentices, trainees or engineering cadets to be used for at least 10 per cent of total labour hours.
As a result, Victorian workers, apprentices and local businesses will have a chance to be a part of the major project, which will see the outdated visitor centre upgraded into a larger, better-equipped centre. The upgrade will also reduce the visitor impact on penguins while increasing their habitat.
Businesses interested in being part of this project can register with the Industry Capability Network (ICN), which is taking expressions of interest from suppliers of landscaping, construction, furniture and fittings.
As one of Australia’s most popular wildlife attractions, the penguin parade welcomed over 700,000 visitors last year, and over 1.4 million visitors to all of the park’s attractions. This investment will ensure that Victoria remains at the forefront of global tourism, with a forecast visitation increase of up to 20 per cent over the next ten years.
To register an expression of interest with the Industry Capability Network, or to find out more about the project, visit the dedicated Phillip Island Nature Park Visitor Centre page on the ICN website.
