Ajax workers occupy factory

Date: 18 August 2006

189 employees of auto component manufacturer Ajax Fasteners in Melbourne's Eastern Suburbs were stood down at 7 am this morning by the company's Administrators Price Waterhouse Coopers.

The action came after the Administrators failed to finalise rescue package with Ajax's customers which is predominately the automotive manufacturing industry.

AWU Victorian Branch Secretary Cesar Melhem said the workers have voted unanimously to occupy the Factory until a rescue package guaranteeing the workers' entitlements can be put together.

Mr. Melhem said the action taken by the Administrators will be a disaster for Australia's major car manufacturers who may have to cease production as early as this afternoon.

"The actions of the Administrators and the major car manufacturers was a kick in the guts to the 189 workers at Ajax who are without any income from today onwards" Mr. Melhem said.

"The effect of the Automotive industry as a whole will be massive over the coming days and I would like to know if the Federal Government will be taking action to put a halt to this crisis."

Mr. Melhem said that whilst the workers at Ajax were distressed by this morning's developments they are standing strong and will occupy the factory 24 hours a day until some action is taken to secure their futures.

"The Ajax workers and their unions will continue our fight for a fair go, these workers have been penalised for the inaction of the giant Car Companies and it stinks."

"However we will maintain our vigil here in Braeside until justice can be done" Mr. Melhem said.

Ajax Fasteners have been in Administration since 8 August 2006 and their factory is located on Mills Road, Braeside.

For further information

Union:	The Australian Workers' Union
Phone:	03 8327 0888
Fax:	03 8327 0899
Email:	members@awu.net.au
WWW:	http://www.awu.net.au

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