The Net Zero Economy Authority’s decision to apply for enforceable, co-ordinated transition support for workers affected by the closure of Eraring Power Station is an important milestone for coal power workers and communities, the Mining and Energy Union said today.
NZEA CEO David Shankey announced today he has applied to the Fair Work Commission for a ‘Community of Interest’ determination, the first step towards an Energy Industry Jobs Plan which ensures affected workers receive training and redeployment support.
The application covers direct and contractor employees at the power station and captured coal mine Myuna, covering 1,300 workers.
MEU General President Grahame Kelly said this decision would be welcomed by Eraring and Myuna workers; and would give hope for all Australian coal power workers.
“As the first application for an Energy Industry Jobs Plan for a coal-fired power station, this is an important milestone. It shows we are finally on a path towards certainty, structure and enforceability of worker support at a time the energy industry is facing enormous upheaval.
“We thank the NZEA for listening to workers’ concerns about the future. While this process has a way to play out, it’s a critical first step that provides hope for workers, families and communities.
“We also thank all the MEU members who have fought for many years for a fair go for energy workers.”
The Fair Work Commission will now consider the NZEA’s application, with workers, unions, employers and community stakeholders given the opportunity to be heard.
An Energy Industry Jobs Plan would place clear obligations on all covered employers to provide support such as training, career and financial advice, and paid time for workers to access those supports, while also enabling the NZEA to coordinate redeployment, attract new employers to the region and support local businesses through incentives to hire displaced workers.
The MEU is currently taking part in NZEA consultations about the closures of Yallourn, Collie A and Muja Power Stations.
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