The Australian Industry Group has welcomed the State Government's announcement today of the Next Generation Tram Project, which will build 100 new trams in Victoria.

The $1.85 billion contract, awarded to Bombardier, should enable Victorian manufacturing to develop a strongly competitive approach to tram manufacturing in the State and support thousands of jobs in manufacturing, its supply chain and construction of the trams.

Victorian Head of Ai Group, Tim Piper, said the local content quota of 65% will be important to local manufacturers.

"The local content figure is a significant one and should provide certainty to local manufacturers enabling capital investment, skilling of workers and competitive global pricing. We look forward to this decision helping to create a strong heavy engineering sector in the State," Mr Piper said.

Mr Piper also congratulated Bombardier on being awarded the contract and for its commitment to local industry.

Further comment

Tim Piper – 0411 430 301