The move will result in nearly 2,900 people losing their jobs. 

 

The firm said a strong Australian currency, high manufacturing costs and a small domestic market were among the reasons behind its decision.

 

Holden, which has made cars in Australia for nearly 65 years, will retain its sales unit and a parts distribution centre in Australia.

 

"The decision to end manufacturing in Australia reflects the perfect storm of negative influences the automotive industry faces in the country," GM chief executive Dan Akerson said in a statement.

 

"This includes the sustained strength of the Australian dollar, high cost of production, small domestic market and arguably the most competitive and fragmented auto¹ market in the world."

 

 

Carmakers in Australia have been struggling for some time, despite the government extending support to the industry via subsidies over the past few years.

 

However, there has been a debate over whether the government should continue to provide support to the sector³. 

 

According to the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC), Prime Minister Tony Abbott declared last week that there would be no more taxpayer⁴ assistance.

 

The government had also increased pressure on Holden in recent days to clarify its future plans for Australia.

 

Dave Smith, national secretary of the vehicle division at Australian Manufacturing Workers Union, said the government's push had influenced Holden's move.

 

"I believe the decision's been prompted by the behaviour of the government yesterday," he told the ABC.

 

"Unfortunately, they've been let down by a government that wouldn't back them in."

点击收听单词发音