A major consolidation of News Corp real estate is taking place, with approximately 2,600 members of staff affected.
Plans are afoot to merge regional Sydney sites into an upgraded facility in Surry Hills. It is thought that staff from Alexandria may be moved to Newspoll House in Elizabeth Street, pending new lease negotiations. News Corp is also gearing up to sell its Parramatta holdings.
Company executives have been reviewing the situation for the past few months, and staff relocations are expected to commence in October, with a move to a newly renovated Holt Street facility.
The Surry Hills location will provide convenient access to public transport, plus the opportunity to enjoy local amenities such as bars, cafes, and parks. News Corp believes that improved innovation and collaboration amongst employees will appropriately reflect its reputation as the premier media company in Australia.
Improved facilities at Newspoll House and Holt Street will include a roof terrace, a restaurant, a gym and meeting areas. It is hoped that all staff relocations will be completed by early 2014.
Public reaction to the changes has been mixed. Supporters claim the move of editorial staff to Central Sydney is a sensible business model considering many stories require an inner-city presence. On the other hand, employment spokespersons for the embattled Western Suburbs claim the move is contrary to News Corp’s promotion of regional Sydney jobs.
The move is expected to bring with it an increased demand for the services provided by Sydney’s printing companies. News Corp will no doubt be providing its workers with plenty of printed information regarding the move as it develops.
