The Minister for Innovation, Industry, Science and Research, Senator Kim Carr announced a comprehensive review of the Australian Textile, Clothing and Footwear (TCF) industries to be conducted by Professor Roy Green in consultation with an industry reference group.
Professor Green is the Dean of the Macquarie Graduate School of Management.
The Government will separately request that the Productivity Commission undertake modelling on economy-wide effects of future assistance options. The Commission's modelling will be released publicly to inform Professor Green's examination of the industry, public debate, and the Government's deliberations in this area.
"Australia's TCF industries have faced increasing competitive pressures over the last decade. Unfortunately, the previous Government did not respond to these challenges in any meaningful way. The Rudd Government is determined to work with the TCF sector to develop viable strategies for its long-term future.
"I expect the establishment of the review will provide renewed energy and enthusiasm across TCF industries," Senator Carr said.
The review will consult closely with all stakeholders in a thorough and considered way. Its task will be to develop practical and effective strategies to ensure Australia's TCF industries will be vibrant, innovative and competitive well into the future.
"The TCF industries have an important role to play in Australia's economic and socialfuture. But the right policy settings must be put in place now.
"The review will take into account the changing nature of the industries in the TCF sector and assess their current performance and prospects. It will seek to ensure that TCF industries are able to take advantage of new technologies and new research and have the skills and strategies that are needed to compete in the global market place."
Senator Carr said the issue of industry assistance will also be addressed.
"The appropriateness and effectiveness of assistance provided to the industry will be examined, as will the existing structural adjustment assistance measures."
