By CAM LUCADOU-WELLS
CONSTRUCTION of a $135 million pharmaceutical headquarters in Dandenong South is expected to create 200 new jobs.
This morning, the first sod was turned for Ego Pharmaceuticals’ new global headquarters in Oppenheim Road, which will include a distribution centre and manufacturing centre.
The company currently employs 295 people in Victoria and 155 interstate and overseas, doubling its workforce in the past five years.
It exports 34 per cent of its products.
Stage one of the project is expected to be completed by late 2017.
Ego Pharmaceuticals managing director Alan Oppenheim said the project secured the future of the business in Victoria.
It would enable the company to “grow exponentially and continue to drive our manufacturing and export business,” he said.
“Australian manufacturing and exporting has significant benefits to the wider economy.
“We’re committed to continuing to innovate, invest in Australians and lead the industry with our world-class practices from state-of-the-art facilities.”
Industry Minister Lily D’Ambrosio said the investment “cements Victoria’s position as a leading centre for pharmaceutical manufacturing”.
“(It) ensures the company’s products continue to be manufactured in Melbourne for the Australian and global market.”
The State Government supported Ego’s planning application with a view to further infrastructure on the site over the next 25 years.
