Latrobe Valley workers are calling on all Victorian political parties to commit to a $102 million plan to secure new jobs, industries and training opportunities before Yallourn Power Station closes in 2028.
The Mining and Energy Union’s (MEU) Victorian District today launched Jobs for Tomorrow, a campaign led by workers and families calling for investment in the region’s future before existing jobs disappear.
The campaign, which stars real local MEU members will run across radio and digital advertising, starting tomorrow.
Around 1,000 workers and their community face an uncertain future as Yallourn’s closure approaches. The MEU says the time to establish new industries and employment opportunities is now, not after workers have lost their jobs.
MEU Victorian District President Andy Smith said workers and their families deserved certainty about the region’s future.
“Latrobe Valley workers have powered Victoria for generations. Now it’s Victoria’s turn to back the workers, families and communities who keep the lights on,” Mr Smith said.
“Yallourn’s closure is getting closer, and workers are making decisions now about their futures as well as who to vote for. They need to know there will be good jobs in the Valley and a real pathway into them.
“We can’t wait until the gates close and then start asking what comes next. We need investment, training and new industries in place before these jobs disappear.”
The MEU’s Jobs for Tomorrow plan calls for a $102 million Victorian Government package, including:
- Investment to attract and establish new industries in the Latrobe Valley.
- Industrial land and infrastructure that is ready for new businesses and jobs.
- Retraining and income support for mature-age workers, and study bursaries for workers and their partners.
- At least 40 adult apprenticeships through the State Electricity Commission, recognising workers’ existing skills and experience.
- Funded regional coordination and accountability to make sure commitments are delivered.
“Workers don’t want to be told to simply retrain and hope for the best. They need training connected to real jobs, and they need those jobs to be available in their community,” Mr Smith said.
“Families have built their lives in the Latrobe Valley. They deserve the opportunity to stay here, continue their careers and see a future for the next generation.”
The MEU is seeking commitments from all parties ahead of the Victorian election.
“This is about the future of our community, and it should be a priority for every party seeking to govern Victoria,” Mr Smith said.
“Workers and families have done their part for this state. It’s time for Victoria to invest in jobs for tomorrow.”
The campaign website can be viewed here: https://jobsfortomorrow.com.au/
Contact details:
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Emily Holm
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M 0400 382 271
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