A new $5 million training and production facility at Oakdale Enterprises has been officially opened by Tasmanian Senator Eric Abetz.
The project received $4 million under the Australian Government’s Tasmanian Jobs and Growth Package, with Oakdale contributing the remainder.
The initiative includes a new workshop with state of the art timber processing equipment, a training room and office facilities.
CEO, Drew Beswick, said the development positions the business for a bright future.
“This is a major investment in the future of this site and the future of the 40 employees who work here.
“The new facilities and equipment are helping to grow the business by diversifying and value-adding our product line, and increasing our production capacity.”
As a social enterprise, Mr. Beswick said Oakdale Enterprises had an important role in addressing inequities in access to employment, particularly for people with disability.
“Australia ranks poorly in labour force participation for people with disability when compared with other OECD countries.
“We must do better to encourage, train and employ people with disabilities, so they can experience the dignity and purpose of work like members of the broader community.”
A key aspiration of the NDIS is to improve training and workforce participation and we are committed to being a strong contributor.
More than 100 guests attended the celebration, including representatives from the timber industry, disability sector, architects and builders and employees.
View all of the images from the launch on Facebook.
