BY ISABEL EVERETT
25 former Jetstar aviation workers have been recruited to start a new career in the defence industry as part of the Morrison Government’s F-35 Joint Strike Fighter Program.
The former aircraft technicians and logisticians, including apprentices, have began training with BAE Systems Australia to sustain Australia’s growing fleet of F-35A Lightning II and Hawk Lead in Fighter aircraft.
JetStar announced in June they would be closing their maintenance base at Newcastle airport, resulting in 200 job losses, with some air craft technician apprentices offered the opportunity to re-locate to Melbourne.
Minister for Defence, Senator the Hon Linda Reynolds CSC said this was a great outcome for the workers who were recently made redundant.
“These workers, who will start their new roles in January, will be retained in the local aviation industry while simultaneously helping Defence build its sovereign F-35A sustainment capability.
Senator for New South Wales, Hollie Hughes says the employment contributes to the economic security of the Hunter region.
"This is demonstrating how the Hunter region is going to be one of the power house areas as we come out of the Covid recession.
"Its secures the Hunter region not only as a mining power house but also as a manufacturing and Defnce industry."
"Ports, roads, rails the infrastructure is all there ready to see the Hunter region secure it future and the future of Australia as we move forward."
21 aviation technicians and logisticians will support the RAAF team at No 81 Wing in the ongoing maintenance of Australia’s F-35A fleet at RAAF Base Williamtown.
