North Coast a perfect fit as a hub for call centres and back office support

August 11, 2010

The North Coast should become a hub for call centres and back office support, Federal MP Luke Hartsuyker said today.

Speaking at the official launch of his election campaign Mr Hartsuyker said the success of the Coffs Harbour Centrelink Call Centre could be replicated in other government departments and commercial activities.

“The expansion of the Coffs Harbour Centrelink Call Centre has created around 250 extra jobs.  It is the largest single purpose call centre in Australia and it highlights why call centres and back office government and corporate services should not be located in a metropolitan area. This region has competitive advantages that will enable it to make a real contribution to Australia’s economic future.

“We have a ready made workforce which can be equipped with the skills necessary to deliver these services. Metropolitan based government departments struggle to retain staff but in a regional area the salaries on offer are comparatively competitive.   We have a university and our diverse industries are achieving critical mass and competing nationally and internationally.  We have a jet airport which provides physical connectivity with the nation and the world.

“Our region can offer the skilled and stable workforce needed to provide savings to business and government. And that would lead to increased investment opportunities for commercial office development.   All this create jobs and opportunities to local people and builds regional prosperity. This plan doesn’t require government subsidies, just a vision for this region as an integral part of Australia’s future.”

Mr Hartsuyker also highlighted other key Coalition initiatives which deliver meaningful difference to the North Coast.  “I believe the Coalition has the national policy platform which will deliver vital services to our region.  The Coalition will invest $3.1bn in a health and hospital plan which will provide 2,800 extra beds, that’s 1,500 more than Labor.

“The Coalition has a $I.5 billion commitment to mental health services. Labor has no commitment to mental health.  Smaller hospitals will see appropriate loadings and block grants to ensure their future.

“The Coalition will reverse Labor’s injustice by extending access to independent youth allowance to all students in Cowper subject to a generous income test.  The Coalition will expand Education Rebate to ease the cost of living pressures on families with children at school.

“The Coalition is committed to delivering additional funds under Auslink 3 to accelerate the upgrade of the Pacific Highway.   The Coalition is committed to delivering practical environment outcomes which through such initiatives as the Green Army which will employ people to do meaningful environment work.   I also believe the Bellingen shire can become a solar region under the Coalition’s Solar Towns programs.

“And the Coalition will not introduce a carbon tax. Labor’s tax which will place further pressure on household budget and small business.”