In its latest meeting the PIWG discussed and identified initiatives to assist the industry to meet present and future challenges.

The PIWG discussed the changing business environment and how the industry is responding. Significant discussion also surrounded the need for the group to engage closely with the newspaper sector in recognition of the recent announcements by News Limited and Fairfax Media which will impact directly on print manufacturing workers.

Scott Telfer, chairman, Printing Industry Working Group says, “The biggest challenge is supporting redundant workers who have been in the industry for most of their lives and only have the required skills to work in printing. The government should support the industry more, and not support business that cannot afford to pay their expenses. The money should be spent on the redundant workers in supporting them to find work in different industries if they cannot find any work in printing.”

The printing industry has progressed a number of initiatives including, including the establishment of the Enterprise Connect Printing and Publishing Network to assist SME’s to better understand and develop their business, the support of the Government to engage advisors and mentors to reinvigorate the apprenticeship system, industry collaboration on the Print Power Campaign to promote the commercial benefit of print in a multi channel communication world.

It has also been active in the development and response to the report of the Book Industry Strategy Group, the industry establishment of the Two Sides initiative supporting the environment credentials of print and paper, and key industry associations’ commitment to create and collect data for the industry, as well as the closer unity of industry associations in delivering outcomes for the industry.

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