Comcare crowd canvassess Canberra

THE push to relocate another large government organisation to Geelong is gathering steam, with several local business leader groups sending representatives to Canberra last week.

The delegation to relocate Comcare comprised City of Greater Geelong chief executive officer Kelvin Spiller, Geelong Chamber of Commerce chair Kylie Warne, Committee for Geelong (CfG) chair Rebecca Casson, Transport Accident Commission (TAC) chief executive officer Joe Calafiore and G21 chief executive officer Elaine Carbines.

In response to a request by the federal government to list agencies suitable for relocation by the end of this year, the CfG proposed shifting Comcare – which oversees safety, rehabilitation and compensation for all federal government agencies and authorities – to Geelong in May, saying the move could result in up to 700 new jobs for the city.

While in Canberra, the delegation met with MPs including Shadow Minister for Cities Anthony Albanese, Corio federal member Richard Marles and Corangamite federal member Sarah Henderson.

Ms Henderson said the TAC was an example of how relocation to Geelong could result in cost savings.

“Mr Calafiore estimates this has been in the order of $15 million per annum; a very significant saving. I expect substantial cost savings would also be made by Comcare if it was to move to Geelong.

“As a region, we need to ensure that Comcare is, first and foremost, identified as an agency which should be moved out of Canberra.

“I am advocating very hard for this relocation to our great city, which would build on our reputation as a centre of excellence for the social insurance sector.”

Mr Spiller said advantages for Comcare and its staff in relocating to Geelong included affordable housing, an enviable lifestyle, an experienced workforce, a supportive corporate community and an easy drive to Melbourne.