Online shopping behemoth company Amazon will build a mega storage and distribution centre near the Western Sydney Aerotropolis, creating 1500 jobs in addition to 700 jobs during its construction, the NSW Premier has announced.
Premier Gladys Berejiklian said Amazon’s commitment reflected the NSW Government’s focus on innovation and technology to create jobs.
“This important commitment by one of the world’s leading multinationals highlights Western Sydney’s growing stature as a strong investment destination,” Ms Berejiklian said.
“The construction and operation of this centre will deliver far-reaching benefits for the people and businesses of NSW, including more than 2000 jobs at time when we need them most.”
With the ability to operate 24/7, the almost 200,000 square metre facility is expected to be the largest ‘fulfilment centre’ built in Australia, the Premier said.
She said it would also be its most advanced, incorporating the company’s latest robotics systems – the first time these will have been deployed by Amazon in the Southern Hemisphere.
Minister for Jobs, Investment, Tourism and Western Sydney, Stuart Ayres said Amazon’s decision was a vote of confidence in the NSW economy.
“It supports our strategy to foster new sources of growth through Innovation Precincts including the Western Sydney Aerotropolis,” Mr Ayres said.
“The project will contribute to local workforce development and provide skilled employment in areas like robotics, logistics and supply chain.
“It will also help build our local e-commerce sector, giving small and medium-sized businesses access to Amazon’s packing, shipping, customer service and returns capabilities, along with easier access to millions of customers across Australia and the world.
“NSW consumers will benefit too from a more efficient delivery and supply chain,” Mr Ayres said.
NSW Treasurer, Dominic Perrottet said the construction of the Fulfilment Centre came at a time when it was vital to boost jobs as the NSW economy recovers from the COVID-19 shutdown.
“Creating jobs and boosting business is the most important thing we can do right now, and this project means work for hundreds of people both during construction and when it opens,” Mr Perrottet said.
“It’s been a very tough year so far but that won’t stop NSW from growing stronger, and the Fulfilment Centre is another snapshot of just how important the Western Sydney Aerotropolis will become for our state.”
The Fulfilment Centre, to be located in the Oakdale West Industrial Estate, will aim to be delivering packages to NSW residents and beyond by Christmas 2021.
