Attracting manufacturing firms to South Australia: The case of Philips in Hendon, 1946-1980

Martin Shanahan and Pierre van der Eng

No 8, CEH Discussion Papers from Centre for Economic History, Research School of Economics, Australian National University

Abstract: Philips Australia established its manufacturing branch in Adelaide in 1946. At peak, its Hendon plant had 3,500 employees and was one of many manufacturers that reshaped the city’s northwestern suburbs. Philips was enticed by the offer of relocation subsides, access to Commonwealth buildings, and State provision of affordable housing. The company’s approach to employee welfare included providing staff training and sporting and cultural amenities. The social impact of industrialisation and Philips’ presence lasted several decades but faded after the company left in 1980 and immigrant workers aged. It did, however, contribute to permanent social changes in Adelaide’s north-western suburbs.

Keywords: manufacturing; corporate culture; industry policy; Adelaide; Philips Electronics (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: N67 N87 N97 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025-10
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