Rail Industry's Supplier Advocate Announced

26 Nov 09

Bruce Griffiths, Executive Chairman of Futuris Automotive Group, has been appointed to champion Australian rail suppliers as the Government’s first Supplier Advocate.

Through the $8.2 million Supplier Advocate program, a number of respected industry figures will be appointed to provide leadership for specific sectors.  

“Central to Mr Griffith’s role will be helping small and medium-sized businesses market their products to government buyers and champion sectoral initiatives to improve competitiveness,” said Innovation Minister, Senator Kim Carr.  

Click here to find out more!  “He will also help coordinate support from the Industry Capability Network, Enterprise Connect, Austrade and other programs.  

“Rail is a $3 billion industry, employing over 8000 workers nationally. There is great opportunity for Mr Griffiths to build on the capabilities of this high-tech, high-skilled sector.  

“He will work closely with industry, unions, industry associations and government.  

“Mr Griffiths has a wealth of experience in the manufacturing industry. He was inducted into the Victorian Manufacturing Hall of Fame for services to manufacturing, and also awarded the Centenary Medal for services to the development of the automotive industry policy.  

“This appointment is strongly supported by industry, industry associations and unions. His expertise, insight and leadership will assist local firms get a fairer go competing for work on government contracts.  

“Additional Supplier Advocates will be appointed in the coming months, including steel and textiles, clothing and footwear.”  

The Supplier Advocate Program is part of the Rudd Government’s $19.1 million Boosting Australian Industry Participation announcement made in July. For more information visit www.innovation.gov.au

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