Unions will seek government assistance for workers affected by the double blow to the auto industry in Victoria this week.

On Thursday, Ford announced 240 voluntary redundancies, while Toyota said it would temporarily reduce its production.

Ford said the job cuts were the result of a drop in demand for large cars.

The company said it will try to achieve the reductions through redeployments and voluntary redundancies.

Meanwhile, Toyota announced its plant at Altona in Melbourne’s west will operate on a reduced schedule in May and June.

Production of the Camry will be halved which Toyota says is because several Japanese component suppliers have been affected by the earthquake and tsunami.

Approximately 3300 workers have been told they will have to work half-days at three-quarters pay.

AMWU Victorian Secretary, Steve Dargavel said workers were unhappy with the way Toyota made the announcement.

“The company’s original briefing to the union was that this was avoidable, that they were meeting with their suppliers.

The union will meet with the company on Monday to discuss the issue. They will also request government assistance with alternative employment and training programs for all affected auto workers.