Workers shouldn’t have to pay for transition out of their own pockets

The Mining and Energy Union has welcomed news that workers at Premier Coal will not be left footing the bill for the energy transition themselves, saying it is an important acknowledgement that working people cannot be expected to carry the cost of industry change alone.

MEU Western Australia Secretary Greg Busson said the announcement was a positive step and reflected concerns workers and local communities have been raising for years.

“Workers should not be expected to sacrifice their own financial security to deliver an energy transition that benefits the broader economy,” Mr Busson said.

“For too long, workers in regions like Collie have been told transition is coming, but without enough detail about what that actually means for the people whose jobs, mortgages and communities are on the line.”

“We welcome the recognition that workers shouldn’t be paying for transition out of their own pockets.”

Mr Busson said while the gesture was appreciated, there remained major unanswered questions around long-term transition planning, replacement industries, secure jobs and guarantees for workers and contractors across the region.

“The reality is workers are still deeply anxious about what comes next. People want certainty, not slogans.”

“We need serious planning around replacement employment, training pathways, local industry investment and protections for workers who have spent decades powering the state.”

“The WA Government cannot do this alone. There needs to be support from the Federal Government as well.”

“Collie is seen as the gold standard for transition in Australia, but if federal support is not forthcoming then we will quickly turn from the golden child into a bronze Buddha.”

“Transition can’t just mean closure dates. It has to mean real jobs, real investment and real futures for regional communities.”

Mr Busson said the union would continue pushing governments and industry to work directly with workers and local communities on practical solutions.

“Workers have powered this country for generations. They deserve respect, honesty and a genuine plan for the future.”