The fallout continues from Ford Australia’s decision to cease local car manufacturing.

Today, attention turned from the factory floor to the boardroom as urgent talks were held in an effort to save Australia’s manufactoring sector.

Michael Kersnovske reports.

TRANSCRIPT

Still realing from Ford’s shock announcment yesterday, Opposition Leader and Ford driver Tony Abbott appeared on morning radio, less than impressed.

Tony Abbott, Opposition Leader: “I felt personally like it had been a kick in the guts because I’ve driven the mighty Ford Territory ever since it came out virtually. It’s a terrific car!”

Regardless of how good they might be, Ford yesterday announced it would be ceasing its Australian manufacturing arm.

This follows the company posting a $141 million loss last financial year.

That’s despite recieving $34 million in tax payer subsidies last year and more than $1bn over the past decade.

David Bradbury, Assistant Treasurer: “It’s not possible for governments to enter binding agreements with company’s where the assistance that is provided does deliver long term certainty, that the reality of it.”

Ford’s decision means the Federal government will again be reaching into its pockets, pledged $50 million to help workers of Ford to find new jobs.

For the Australian manufactoring sector, attention now turns to Toyota and Holden in hope they won’t follow Ford.

Mike Devereux, Holden Managing Director: “There are no guarentees in life on anything John. We certainly want to continue to be able to do things.”

Regardless, October 2016 will spell the end of an historic piece in Australian automotive history.

Michael Kersnovske, QUT News.