Community

Employment opportunities coming to Officer

The Officer Employment Precinct Structure Plan (PSP) is a major project that aims to create a large employment and industry hub in support of Officer’s rapidly growing population.

Prepared by the Victorian Planning Authority in partnership with Cardinia Shire Council, the Officer PSP focuses on creating an industrial and commercial precinct of state significance by attracting businesses such as manufacturing, logistics and warehousing, and commercial services, among other industries.

In short, it is a masterplan for a major employment hub that will ultimately provide a wide range of vocational opportunities for Lera residents.

Located in Officer South (within easy reach of Lera), the PSP covers an area of about 1,069 hectares. It will be bounded by the Princes Freeway to the north, Cardinia Creek to the west, Lower Gum Scrub Creek to the east, and the Urban Growth Boundary to the south.

Expected to generate roughly 22,000 jobs, the precinct will help cut the commute time for residents who currently travel greater distances to work. Local employment opportunities will lead to less traffic on the roads, shorter travel times, and a better work-life balance for Lera residents.

The economic implications of the project are enormous. As well as jobs, it will bring huge growth by attracting large businesses and the investment industry needs, support local suppliers and small businesses, and diversify the regional economy.

While this is a long-term plan, it has already been approved. That means the first businesses and industrial estates could start appearing in the next 2-4 years.

Ultimately, the children of our Lera residents will benefit the most. By the time they’re ready to leave school, Officer will have become the economic hub of Melbourne’s south-east, attracting people from across the region. The future looks bright indeed at Lera!