Pac Brands sneaks out machines

MELBOURNE— On May 29, union and community activists protested against Pacific Brands' attempt to move machinery out of Australia. The protest was held at Swanston Dock. Pacific Brands, which makes government uniforms, said in February it would sack 1850 workers and move clothing production overseas.

Textile, Clothing and Footwear Union of Australia national secretary Michelle O'Neil told protesters Pacific Brands had secretly moved machinery from its Nunawading factory the night before, and transported it to the dock.

The Nunawading site employs 250 workers. They will be sacked when the factory closes in two months. The machinery taken from the site will go to Pacific Brands' Berlei factory in Indonesia.

The company received $17 million from taxpayers over the past two financial years. "Pacific Brands said they had no intention of moving machinery and now we find them trying to sneak these machines out of the country," O'Neil said. They treat workers and taxpayers with contempt."

She said government uniforms should be made in Australia and called on the Rudd government to step in, not just "express sympathy".

If you like our work, become a supporter

Green Left is a vital social-change project and aims to make all content available online, without paywalls. With no corporate sponsors or advertising, we rely on support and donations from readers like you.

For just $5 per month get the Green Left digital edition in your inbox each week. For $10 per month get the above and the print edition delivered to your door. You can also add a donation to your support by choosing the solidarity option of $20 per month.

Freecall now on 1800 634 206 or follow the support link below to make a secure supporter payment or donation online.