Pictured inspecting the APVMA design plans in Armidale earlier this year with local Mayor Simon Murray.

Member for New England, Barnaby Joyce, says the latest figures on the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA) relocation to Armidale demonstrate a strong interest in local jobs and potential for growth in regional areas.

The Authority has received nearly 300 job applications for up to 50 positions in Armidale including 79 applications for 19 scientific jobs from scientists across the country. Additionally, more than 130 applications were from capital cities and 110 from Armidale and surrounding areas.

“This is decentralisation in action, with investment, growth and jobs all heading to the New England off the back of this move,” Mr Joyce said.

“It’s not just people from out of town applying either - local people are sticking up their hand as well which is great news for our electorate.

“Rural and regional areas like our own deserve the best opportunities we can provide with stronger economies and more skilled people in more local jobs across our region. 

“That’s why my Nationals colleagues and I are passionate about decentralisation like this because the whole town benefits – local coffee shops, the hairdresser, motor mechanics, they all see the benefits from more business in town.   

“But the Labor Party has refused to accept these undeniably positive figures for the APVMA and will stop at nothing to discredit any project which looks to benefit people in bush.

“More than 50 APVMA staff are already working in Armidale and more are heading our way very shortly.”

Construction of the long-term Armidale leased premises on Taylor St, where the vast majority of APVMA staff will be based, remains on schedule for occupancy in mid-2019.

(ENDS)