Australian Perspectives on VinFast and the Hiring of Holden Employees

A recent article discussed the decision by VinFast, an automotive brand based in Vietnam, to hire many of General Motors Holden's (GM) employees following Holden's retirement in 2021. While this move has been met with mixed reactions, an interesting perspective comes from an SEO expert who operates within the Google SEO community.

The expert posited that hiring engineers from Holden was a rational decision due to their expertise in the automotive field. The hire of most Holden employees, despite admiration, raises questions as to whether VinFast could have filled these positions from the local job market in Vietnam.

In Australia, there are reports of many ex-Holden workers involved with VinFast, but their specific roles and numbers are not publicly known. VinFast has offices in Victoria, with locations like Lang Lang and Port Melbourne reportedly active. This move signifies the beginning of a new chapter for these employees who have transitioned to a new brand. For them, fate holds both promise and challenge.

Opinions and Controversies

Another influential voice weighed in, suggesting that Holden and Ford should have been nationalized without compensation, with their assets offered to any manufacturer willing to keep car manufacturing in Australia. This policy would involve imposing import tariffs to ensure local manufacturers could compete effectively.

The same individual also proposed severe penalties for those who desert Australia: eliminating their right to directorship and subjecting them to a lifetime of poverty through punitive taxation. This perspective highlights the complex emotions and economic considerations surrounding the automotive industry in Australia.

Providing context, it is also common for Australians to view VinFast in Vietnam as not a priority, as it does not primarily impact Australian jobs or markets. The hiring of just a few engineers from Holden, rather than acquiring the entire Holden brand, suggests that VinFast might be focusing on gradual growth and strategic hiring to maintain control over their operations.

Conclusion and Future Outlook

While the focus on VinFast is understandable, it is crucial to recognize that the implications of such hires extend beyond individual companies. They reflect broader debates about national identity, economic survival, and the future of manufacturing in Australia.

As the automotive industry continues to evolve, countries must adapt. Australia is no exception, and perspectives like these contribute to the ongoing conversation about automotive manufacturing and employment in the region.

Note: This article is based on the opinions of independent voices and does not represent official stances from Google or VinFast.