In response to the current COVID-19 pandemic, Volvo Group Australia is announcing a temporary 4-week shutdown of the Wacol, Qld manufacturing plant. The closure is set to become effective 13 April, with work set to resume on 10 May.

President and CEO of Volvo Group Australia, Martin Merrick said of the decision today, “Volvo and Mack trucks have an identity indelibly etched into the Australian transport industry. We build these trucks here in Australia with pride.”

“We have successfully implemented social distancing and hygiene initiatives throughout our business and to keep our factory running, however, COVID-19 has made a considerable impact in limiting supply chains around the world and our supply chain is no exception.

“The decision to idle our factory due to global supply chain disruptions will not only serve to secure our business over the long term, but it will also serve to support the 90 plus suppliers that in turn support our supply chain.”

“Volvo Group Australia is committed to supporting a safe, sustainable, efficient and productive transport and manufacturing industry locally. We are committed to customer success and acknowledge the challenges faced by our business partners in these uncertain times.

”This decision does not, however, affect the operation of Volvo Group Australia’s private and company-owned workshops and service agents who are continuing to support our truck and bus customers. Our National Parts Distribution Centre in Sydney is also currently operating as normal, supporting our dealer network and our customers.

“We are committed to playing our part in supporting the transport industry during these challenging times.” “We have put in place social distancing and hygiene measures at all sites to combat the spread of COVID-19, we are servicing our truck and bus customers who are ensuring essential supplies and essential workers reach their destinations safely”.

About Volvo Group Australia

Volvo Group Australia is responsible for Mack, UD and Volvo truck brands within Australia, New Zealand, New Caledonia, Papua New Guinea, East Timor and the South Pacific Islands. Mack and Volvo Trucks proudly carry the Australian Made certification for trucks built at the local Wacol factory in Brisbane.

They provide complete transport solutions for professional and demanding customers, including complete solutions for financing and service. Over 1300 people are employed by Volvo Group Australia across the country, with over 90 suppliers also benefitting from local production. Volvo Group boasts the largest dealer network in Australia and New Zealand with service points across the country giving access to metropolitan and regional customers.

Volvo Group Australia is part of Swedish-based Volvo Group, one of the world’s leading manufacturers of trucks, buses, construction equipment and marine and industrial engine.