JBS Australia is investing around $20 million to restart its Cobram, Victoria, processing plant, which was closed in 2017.
The closure came during a period of drought and poor market conditions. The factory was put into a “care and maintenance mode” with JBS giving assurances it would reopen once market conditions improved enough to support its sustainable operation.
JBS Australia CEO Brent Eastwood said, “JBS Australia is pleased to have the opportunity to work alongside the Cobram community again. This reinforces our commitment to continually invest in Australia, our facilities, our people, and local businesses.
“Reopening the Cobram facility has been a key priority for our business to meet this demand and explore growth opportunities overseas for the benefit of the local Cobram economy, livestock producers and our people.”
Sam McConnell, chief operating officer of JBS Southern, said: “Today’s changed market conditions and increasing demand for lamb products has allowed us to invest in this fit-for-purpose facility which will partner with local businesses and livestock producers to deliver Australian lamb, mutton and goat to domestic and international consumers.”
The Cobram facility will focus on delivering against a range of sustainability targets including CO2 reduction, water and energy conservation and people safety.
JBS said it had spent the last few months actively recruiting local Cobram workers for roles required at the plant. When it opens on 6 February, it would have created 150 jobs, with the intention to increase to 350 when it is at full capacity.
The company said due to ongoing labour shortages it will fill some roles via the Federal Government’s Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) Scheme. As an endorsed government sponsored employer JBS will support these Pacific Island workers through community engagement programs and accommodation support.
The Cobram plant will operate five days a week with a capacity to process up-to 4,000 head of livestock per day in time.
There are a number of roles that remain available at the plant and JBS encourages local applications from the community.
