Today is obviously a difficult day for Ford Australia, its employees, suppliers and the car industry.

We understand that many of Ford's employees and related contractors and suppliers both in Geelong and Victoria, will be significantly impacted by today's announcement.

Ford has a long and proud history of manufacturing in Geelong and Broadmeadows. It is well known that these are difficult times in manufacturing in Australia.  Ford has exhausted every avenue to enable them to continue to manufacture in Australia.

We are pleased that Ford has an on-going commitment to its key design business in Victoria, and they will also continue to have a strong brand and sales presence in Australia.

The Geelong Football Club has a long and proud association with Ford Australia, which has existed since 1925. In the past Ford has supported our club through difficult times. We will continue to support Ford's efforts to grow its sales and brand presence, and we look forward to our ongoing association.